Winterizing - Part Two: Previously, we covered how to prepare for winter driving in the Region of Santa Cruz. Now here are 5 car care tips for driving in colder climates.
The ski slopes are calling: Is my car ready for those really cold temperatures?
In the service world of modern day cars most vehicles are ready to go. But here are several things to think about and look at to make your life simpler in colder weather.
1. Windshield help: Now available, for most cars, is a beam-type replacement wiper blade. These work much better in the snow and ice than the standard type with a metal frame. The snow can not get in between the pieces and cause the blade to skip. Check also your window washer fluid for its freezing level. The proper additives in it will help break down minor ice build up on the windshield and wash off the excess road grime. While on the wind shield subject, make sure there is nothing blocking your defroster vents on the dash. This will make it easier to keep the windshield clear of moisture.
(In our recent road adventure over Vail Pass, CO, our wipers were our best friend!)
2. Tires: Your vehicles’ tires are another area for attention. If you spend more time in snow country than in Santa Cruz, perhaps consider snow tires. Most drivers will prefer using all season tires. Any time you head for the mountains don’t forget chains. We personally prefer the cable type chains for their ease in installation. Also make sure you know whether your car has front or rear wheel drive (Put the chains on the ‘wheels’ your car drives by.) My sister, Nancy, is proud to say she helped a struggling family man put the chains on his car on the way to skiing in Oregon.
3. Anti-freeze: Anti-freeze should be regularly serviced in all vehicles. It actually serves as more than a freezing preventative. It raises the boiling point of the coolant to about 250 degrees. No anti-freeze is permanent. Good old fashioned green anti-freeze needs to be replaced every two years. Some of the new anti-freezes will last up to five years under perfect conditions. If you don’t know when the last time your antifreeze was serviced, your repair shop should be able to PH test and freeze level test your coolant. This will let you know how good or bad your anti-freeze is.
4. Exhaust: During this time of year it is particularly important that there are no leaks in your vehicle’s exhaust system. Have it inspected regularly. If the system does leak, and all the windows are up, there is a possibility that exhaust fumes can enter the passengers’ compartment and carbon monoxide poisoning can occur.
5. Safety items to have in trunk: Now that your car is winter road ready, be sure to have possible emergency scenarios covered. There are several schools of thought on what you need in your car when traveling in winter weather. This Cal-trans web site will give you a good list.
So have a great winter - regardless of the road and weather conditions from all of us at Water Star Motors!
