Being left stranded in the summer heat by your vehicle is inconvenient, but having an accident or breakdown with your used car can be life-threatening. The freezing cold, the snow, the ice and the rush to return to the warmth of the interior seem to bring out the weakness in everything and everyone.
Many people also find it difficult to switch between summer and winter driving and in some cases it is just plain scary to maneuver on the dangerous road. One of the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones is to prepare your favorite method of transportation for the upcoming cold season.
winter tires
Not enough can be said about the value of installing winter tires on new or used cars. Yes, they are expensive, and yes, that means having four tires in your garage, but the rubber is specially designed to stick to the road surface in cold temperatures. Other tires harden and become extremely slippery on cold roads.
If you decide to stick with all-season tires or take a chance on summer tires, make sure they aren’t overly worn and are in good condition. Keep a close eye on tire pressure as it rises and falls with temperature and for small leaks. As a bonus, it will help save gas.
Take a look under the hood
Many people will skip oil changes during the winter. Before the snow flies and the temperature drops, carefully check the oil in used cars. Finish off if it is low. If it has lost its golden brown color, be sure to change it. Many choose to change it regardless.
Winter is always hard on batteries. Always have it tested by a trusted auto mechanic to make sure they will get you through the upcoming season. The test will tell you how well it’s working and when you can expect to replace it.
Low temperatures will find every weak spot and cracked area in belts and hoses guaranteed. Look for cracks or weak areas. You’ll also want to give the hose clamps a quick peek to make sure they’re intact and in good condition.
Antifreeze is one of the most common and frequently missed items on the checklist. There has to be enough, but it has to be evenly mixed 50-50 with water. If you don’t, it will freeze and can wreak havoc on your used car.
scraps
Check your first aid kit and emergency kit. A winter kit has specific items to deal with cold temperatures, such as a thermal blanket, a candle, food, water, a flashlight, and jumper cables. Summer windshield washer fluid on used cars won’t be of any use once the temperature drops below freezing. Make sure you have quality windshield washer fluid for the winter. The windshield wipers should also be in top condition to make sure you don’t see those wide white streaks that are consistent with salty roads.
If you have four-wheel drive, test drive it to make sure the hubs engage and disengage properly. If they don’t work properly, it can cause complications here. While you’re at it, take a quick look at the brakes as well.