Even if Texas is in the south-central region, it still experiences harsh winters–even dangerous levels of snowfall occasionally. But if you live in El Paso, the climate is slightly milder because it’s in the Chihuahuan desert. You only get about three inches of snow annually, which isn’t a big deal for most locals. But it doesn’t mean you should be complacent about winter’s effects on your vehicle. A Dodge dealership in El Paso, TX explains why pre-winter car care is essential and shows how it should be done.
Crank Up the 4WD or Get Winter Tires
It’s that time of year again when the roads get slippery, and snowmelt turns hard soil into a mushy cake. You will need a vehicle that works on all terrains, or else you’ll find yourself calling a towing service when your car gets stuck in the mud or slides into a ditch. If you don’t have a 4WD, consider getting winter tires. They are thicker and have better tread, which provides more traction. Also, always check the pressure before hitting the road. Car tires tend to deflate at low temperatures, so you might need to pump more air.
Replace Those Old Wiper Blades
Your windshield wipers will be one of your most important companions during a snowy day. They have to be in excellent condition. When you need to be extra careful with distance and speed, the last thing you need is a snow-covered and foggy windshield. Your old wiper blades may wipe off most of the snow and fog, but they will leave scrape marks that can still obstruct your view of the road. Dodge dealers in Alamogordo, NM suggest you buy a new set of wiper blades before winter finally sets in.
Check the Battery and Get Ready to Buy a New One
Cold temperatures make the motor oil thick, requiring the engine and the battery to do more work. Sometimes, due to vibrations, some components of the battery become loose, causing the chemicals inside to leak out. As this chemical makes contact with the metals under the hood, corrosion begins. You can’t fix battery leaks, but you can maintain the battery’s performance by keeping its surface clean. If the battery has been dying more frequently than usual, consider replacing it before winter.
Clean the Cabin Thoroughly
When was the last time you vacuumed your car’s floor and seats? Don’t wait until the first snowfall before you give your car a good clean. The cold will make the inside of your vehicle damp. It will be hard to completely get rid of dust and grease when that happens. Some of the dust will sink into the piles and slowly harden. So clean up while things are still hot and dry.
Don’t forget to load all winter essentials into your car–tire chains, winter jacket, shovel, fire starter, and the like. You’re probably not going to need them in El Paso, but you know what they say, it’s better to have the tools when you need them than need the tools and not have them. Check out Viva CDJRF for more helpful tips.
