The cold weather can be hard on your car, but there are ways you can protect it. Some of these tips are common sense, while others will require an investment.
One of the most important tips is to get winter tires. These provide extra traction on snow and ice and help extend the life of your spring tires.
Seek Professional Assistance
If your car experiences winter-related damage, it’s important to seek professional help from a reputable auto body shop in Chicago. Experienced technicians can assess the damage, provide an accurate estimate, and perform repairs using high-quality materials and techniques. If you have been in an accident, they can assist you with filing insurance claims and repairing your vehicle.
By following these preventive measures and seeking timely repairs from qualified professionals, you can safeguard your car against the harsh realities of Chicago winters and ensure its longevity and reliability.
Winter Car Preparation Checklist
Inspect your engine coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid levels and condition. Switch to winterized versions if necessary to ensure proper performance in cold temperatures. Worn-out wipers can struggle to clear snow and ice, compromising visibility and safety. Invest in a new set of wipers before the winter arrives. Tire pressure drops as temperatures plummet, affecting handling and fuel economy. Regularly monitor tire pressure and adjust it as needed. Inspect tires for wear, damage, and proper tread depth. Consider switching to winter tires for optimal traction and performance on snowy roads. Extreme cold can weaken car batteries, making it difficult to start your vehicle. Have your battery tested to assess its health and replace it if necessary.
Protect Your Car’s Exterior:
Regularly wash your car to remove Salt, dirt, and grime that can cause corrosion. Consider applying a wax or sealant to protect against harsh winter elements. Despite your best efforts, your car may still encounter damage during the winter. Common issues include Salt used to de-ice roads, which can corrode your car’s bodywork and undercarriage. Regular washing and undercarriage treatments can help mitigate this damage.
Ice accumulation on the wipers, windows, and doors can cause cracks and tears. Regularly remove ice and snow buildup to prevent damage.
Flying debris from snowplows and other vehicles can chip or scratch your paint. Be cautious when driving in snowy conditions, and consider using a car cover for protection.
Tires
The cold weather isn’t just hard on you and can wreak havoc on your vehicle. Simple steps can help you save money and avoid damaging your car.
Tires take a beating in the winter, especially if they need to be properly inflated or have low tread. Tires with low pressure are less able to grip the road and cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
Every 10 degrees, the temperature drops cause air in your tires to decrease, so it is important to check them regularly and keep them at high pressure. Consider investing in snow tires to provide better maneuverability and traction.
Use a salt-free and non-corrosive ice melt to protect your car from corrosion. Also, clean off your tires regularly and apply a coat of wax to help them resist the corrosive elements of the roadways.
