As the temperatures get colder, we start thinking about winter weather. It is important to know what auto repair services are needed before the snow starts flying. In addition to taking care of needed auto repair issues, there are several maintenance checks to think of, such as:
• Antifreeze -- Your radiator is filled with antifreeze to protect your vehicle through the winter. The correct ratio of antifreeze and water in the tank is generally 50/50. Have your radiator inspected to be sure that it is full and that it has the right antifreeze/water ratio.
• Tires -- Your tires have to work extra hard during the winter, so it is important that they be in good condition. Your safety may depend on it! The tire tread depth should be 2/32 inches to be safe, says the National Highway Safety Board. If your treads are less, then you should consider replacing your tires, possibly snow tires. Another thing to be aware of is tire pressure. During cold temperatures, air contracts and your tire pressure may be lower than usual.
• Windshield Wipers -- There is a lot of frozen precipitation that ends up on your windshield. To see clearly, you need to have windshield wipers that are in top working condition. Consider replacing yours before the winter season starts. There are some models that are especially made for snow, ice, and salt.
• Washer Fluid -- While you are inspecting your wipers, check the level of washer fluid. It is invaluable to get the mud and slush off of the windshield. Fill up the reservoir and have an extra gallon of washer fluid on hand for emergencies.
Ask your auto repair technician to check out the following items in your vehicle:
• Battery -- Nothing is more frustrating than to get into your car and find that the battery is dead. Your auto repair specialists will check your battery for power. If your battery is older and has low power, you should consider buying a new one. Your mechanic may clean any corrosion around the posts, which can be the cause of auto electrical problems.
• Plugs and Wires -- These should be checked for wear and cracks. Damaged spark plug wires can decrease your gas mileage and cause engine performance problems. If they are cracked, have them replaced. You should get a new set of plugs when changing the wires.
• Brakes -- You do not want to have brake problems when you are traveling on icy roads. Have your mechanic check your brakes and rotors to make sure they will last through the winter season.
• Oil -- Oil keep your engine lubricated and running smoothly. Check the oil level frequently in colder weather. Most vehicles do well with an oil change every 3,000 miles. Be sure that you are using the oil grade that is appropriate for your vehicle. The oil filter should also be changed when you change the oil.
Being on the roads is a necessity for most people. To keep yourself and your family safe on winter roads, be sure to have your vehicle inspected and serviced as needed. Auto repair technicians are always ready to help you get your vehicle in great shape.
Planning a winter road trip and looking for quality auto repair? Consult our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about our auto repair services and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.
As the temperatures get colder, we start thinking about winter weather. It is important to know what auto repair services are needed before the snow starts flying. In addition to taking care of needed auto repair issues, there are several maintenance checks to think of, such as:
• Antifreeze -- Your radiator is filled with antifreeze to protect your vehicle through the winter. The correct ratio of antifreeze and water in the tank is generally 50/50. Have your radiator inspected to be sure that it is full and that it has the right antifreeze/water ratio.
• Tires -- Your tires have to work extra hard during the winter, so it is important that they be in good condition. Your safety may depend on it! The tire tread depth should be 2/32 inches to be safe, says the National Highway Safety Board. If your treads are less, then you should consider replacing your tires, possibly snow tires. Another thing to be aware of is tire pressure. During cold temperatures, air contracts and your tire pressure may be lower than usual.
• Windshield Wipers -- There is a lot of frozen precipitation that ends up on your windshield. To see clearly, you need to have windshield wipers that are in top working condition. Consider replacing yours before the winter season starts. There are some models that are especially made for snow, ice, and salt.
• Washer Fluid -- While you are inspecting your wipers, check the level of washer fluid. It is invaluable to get the mud and slush off of the windshield. Fill up the reservoir and have an extra gallon of washer fluid on hand for emergencies.
Ask your auto repair technician to check out the following items in your vehicle:
• Battery -- Nothing is more frustrating than to get into your car and find that the battery is dead. Your auto repair specialists will check your battery for power. If your battery is older and has low power, you should consider buying a new one. Your mechanic may clean any corrosion around the posts, which can be the cause of auto electrical problems.
• Plugs and Wires -- These should be checked for wear and cracks. Damaged spark plug wires can decrease your gas mileage and cause engine performance problems. If they are cracked, have them replaced. You should get a new set of plugs when changing the wires.
• Brakes -- You do not want to have brake problems when you are traveling on icy roads. Have your mechanic check your brakes and rotors to make sure they will last through the winter season.
• Oil -- Oil keep your engine lubricated and running smoothly. Check the oil level frequently in colder weather. Most vehicles do well with an oil change every 3,000 miles. Be sure that you are using the oil grade that is appropriate for your vehicle. The oil filter should also be changed when you change the oil.
Being on the roads is a necessity for most people. To keep yourself and your family safe on winter roads, be sure to have your vehicle inspected and serviced as needed. Auto repair technicians are always ready to help you get your vehicle in great shape.
Planning a winter road trip and looking for quality auto repair? Consult our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about our auto repair services and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.
