Winter is one of the harshest seasons not only for people and animals but for vehicles. Issues such as car fluid thickening, tire pressure losses, and drained batteries can cause breakdowns and other serious problems on roads in Dublin. Learn how to prep a car for winter with our guide and enjoy extra peace of mind during the coldest months of the year. And remember, our service department is here to help you with vehicle winter prep tasks!
Winter Car Prep Tips
So how do you prep a car for winter in Macon or the surrounding areas? The following winter car prep tips will help your vehicle handle chilly, damp Georgia weather:
- Check your battery: Cooler weather slows the chemical reactions in car batteries, eventually causing them to drain. While Warner Robins weather usually does not get super frigid, it is still a good idea to inspect the battery terminals and cables for cracks and corrosion. If your battery is several years old, bring it to our technicians for a test.
- Change the oil: Motor oil thickens in reaction to falling temperatures, causing issues like engine part friction and wear. If the oil is already dirty with road dust, metal shards, and other grime, thickening issues become extra severe. Schedule an oil change before winter hits to keep your engine's moving parts lubricated.
- Check the tire pressure: Cold air is denser than warm air. Dense air creates more room in your car tires, causing them to prematurely deflate. Use an inexpensive pressure gauge tool to stay on top of tire pressure changes and make adjustments as needed.
- Schedule a brake check: Wet roads can make your brakes slippery and less effective. Rain and snow also create extra brake friction, causing untimely wear. Request a brake inspection from our technicians to determine if you need repairs or a replacement.
- Check your coolant levels: Sufficient coolant levels in the radiator contribute to optimal engine function and performance. Have our team check your car's coolant level and top it off. Have other fluids topped off as well, such as windshield wiper, transmission, and brake fluids.
- Keep the fuel tank level high: An empty or near-empty fuel tank allows moisture to accumulate, resulting in diluted fuel and fuel pump stress. Maintaining an ideal fuel level for your make and model avoids these issues.
Schedule Winter Auto Services with Five Star Lincoln!
Now you know how to prep a car for winter! If you have any questions about our winter prep tips or need to schedule auto services, please call (478) 922-9131 today! You can also message us online or stop by our dealership in Warner Robins. For more helpful reads, review how to maintain a Lincoln vehicle and how to check car oil!