If your area experiences deep freezes in the winter months, icy, snowy roads are familiar to you. Still, as you prepare for winter with your wardrobe, you might not ever prep the car in the same way; it's possible that you don't even realize what's possible to protect the vehicle from winter conditions. What winter car preparations and precautions should be addressed?
Dressing the Tires
Your tires have the most contact with winter roads. They'll roll over snow, hard ice, water, rock salt, and other things. All of these materials can affect the longevity and integrity of the tires. Silicone-based dressing can be applied to all of your vehicle's tires; the dressing will provide a nice seal over the tire surfaces and protect them. You'll likely have to re-apply the dressing after a certain number of miles; follow product directions.
Changing Wipers
Many people are unaware that windshield wipers are not always meant to stay in place year-round. In fact, there are some wipers made especially for those times when snow and ice become issues. Summer wipers will typically have lattice framework that's easily clogged with ice, while winter wipers have no such exposed parts, enabling them to operate more freely. The blades in winter wipers are usually thicker to handle wiping snow away.
Sealing the Exterior
If the appearance of your car is important to you, sealing the exterior can't be overlooked. Winter conditions can encourage rusting, so ensure that a professional sealant is applied just before temperatures really drop.
Washing the Car
Often overlooked as a necessary action, car washing in winter months is every bit as important as changing your oil or performing other automobile tasks. The snow, mud, and salt which splashes up from the road shouldn't be allowed to eat away at the car all winter. The car's undercarriage is particularly at risk. That's why you must commit to a weekly or otherwise regular washing session that includes the undercarriage.
Filling Wiper Tank
Residue from snow might remain on your windshield, and you may find you're often using the wiper fluid to clean the glass in winter. When the fluid tank is empty, filling it with clean water could seem appropriate, in a pinch. However, water freezes; you just might make windshield wiping impossible if temperatures are too low. Get and use commercial wiper wash fluids.
These tasks enable smooth running of your car, no matter how low temperatures become. Consider professional auto detailing to address these and other issues in the weeks before winter could benefit your vehicle.
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