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In winter, many problems can arise ranging from difficulty in starting the car in the morning to weak tire grip. Cold also affects the battery, tyres, coolant and engine. If these are not checked in time, a small problem can turn into a big expense. Know which 5 things must be checked in the car before the onset of winter and which carelessness can prove costly.
If you want to drive a car in winter, then do this work from now on.
Winter Car Care Tips: Car care becomes very important as the winter season approaches. Cold wind, fog, rain and sometimes snow affect many parts of the car. Battery capacity reduces, tire pressure drops and the engine takes longer to warm up. If these things are not taken care of then problems like not starting in the morning, brake failure or getting stuck on the road can occur.
Proper care of your car in winter not only increases your safety but also saves you from expensive repair bills. With regular checkups, the right fluids and a little caution, your car will keep running trouble-free throughout the season. By adopting the easy tips given below, you can keep your car completely prepared for the winter season. Let us know about these tips.
Battery check and care
The battery is most affected in winter because its ability to hold charge decreases in cold. Every two weeks, clean the battery terminals and check for loose connections. If the car is more than three years old, get the voltage test done by a professional. It is also helpful to keep the bonnet of the car covered while parking overnight. Always keep jump start cables in the car in case you need them.
Tire pressure and traction control
Air shrinks in cold, so tire pressure often decreases. Check tire pressure every month and keep it at the correct level as per the manual. Tread depth should be good, otherwise the grip becomes weak on wet or slippery roads. If possible, consider installing winter tires. Keeping the same pressure in all tires improves handling and also saves fuel.
Coolant and Antifreeze
The level and quality of coolant is very important to keep the engine from freezing. Use coolant mixed with antifreeze in the right proportion so that freezing of water does not damage the engine block. It is good to get the coolant flushed before winter starts. Also check for leakage because even small leaks can become a big problem in cold weather. Proper coolant system helps the engine warm up quickly.
wiper blades and windshield
Good wiper blades are essential for clear vision in fog and light rain. Replace old or cracked blades immediately. Use liquid mixed with antifreeze in windshield washer fluid to prevent it from freezing. Before taking out the car in the morning, gently remove the snow or fog accumulated on the windshield. Keep your vision clear from inside also by using heater and defogger properly.
Engine Oil and Heating System
After starting the vehicle in winter, let the engine warm up for a few minutes. Use the right grade of engine oil that flows easily even in cold weather. Check the heater and defroster so that the cabin warms up quickly and the glass remains clean. Keep all filters clean by getting them serviced regularly. By taking these small precautions, your car will remain reliable and safe even in winter.
About the Author
Ram Mohan Mishra is an active journalist in the automotive world of digital media and has been working continuously in the field of auto journalism since 2021. Presently he is handling the auto desk of News18 Hindi as Senior Sub-Editor.
