Winter in Massachusetts can be unpredictable, as we’ve seen with the strange weather this year. Even with an unseasonably warm winter, it’s important to make sure your vehicle is ready for a cold front, hard freeze, or blizzard at any time. Read through our suggested checklist below to make sure you’re prepped for this winter or schedule an appointment to have our professionals check your vehicle.
1. Check Your Windshield Wipers and Fluid
Snow and road salt build up on windshields quickly. Make sure you have plenty of washer fluid in your vehicle and your wipers aren’t worn out or streaky. Road salt grime causes visibility issues and washer fluid will keep it clear, especially on highways. Make sure the washer fluid you use won’t freeze!
Never use your windshield wipers as ice scrapers either! This causes damage not just to your windshield wipers, but also to your windshield. Keep an ice scraper in your car to clear ice or snow from your vehicle the correct way to reduce damage.
2. Check Your Battery and Charging System
Batteries hate winter. When the temperature drops, its’s more difficult for the battery to maximize power which is necessary for starting the vehicle. The optimal temperature for batteries is about 80 degrees F, which obviously isn’t happening in Massachusetts between January and March. It’s always good to have a professional test your battery before the winter. The last thing you want is to be out on a ski trip and your car won’t start.
3. Check Your Anti-Freeze Protection Level
Antifreeze (or coolant) absorbs engine heat during the winter and summer months to prevent the engine from overheating, It’s also used to resist freezing, hence the name “anti-freeze.” Coolant liquid is typically diluted with a specified amount of water, depending on your vehicle or the temperature you’re driving in. As anti-freeze (or coolant) ages and/or incorrect fluids are used to top-off the level, it can raise the freezing point. If water or other liquids make their way into the engine and then freeze at low temps, the cooling system hoses, radiator, or engine block may burst as the water/ice expands.
There are several types of coolant and adding the wrong one could detrimentally impact your protection level. Consult us or book an appointment to have us check your coolant levels properly.
4. Make Sure Your Tires are Snow-Ready
Worn out tires are dangerous in snowstorms or even rain. Because of the lack of tread, the tires are more susceptible to sliding, so wet or slippery roads become dangerous. Have a professional check your tires for excessive wear or damage. Schedule an appointment to have your snow tires put on your vehicle if needed too.
5. Prepare an Emergency Kit
It’s good practice to keep an emergency kit in your car at all times. You don’t want to end up in a situation that leaves you stranded or worse. Before you take off in a snow storm or road trip, make sure you have an emergency kit in your vehicle. Here’s a few items that should be included:
First-Aid Kit
Ice/Snow Scraper
Jumper Cables
Tire Pressure Gauge
Tire Plug Kit
Blankets
Flashlight
Road Flares
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