List of Things to Know About Winter Car Maintenance

Winter brings heavy rainfall and cold weather conditions that demand extra attention from drivers. In such weather, being cautious is crucial to avoid dangerous situations on the road. However, it's not just the drivers who need to be prepared for winter; their vehicles also need to be winter-ready. The harsh conditions of winter can put a strain on your vehicle's performance, and neglecting winter preparation can jeopardize your safety as well as the safety of other drivers on the road. This applies not only to vehicle owners but also to drivers renting cars. When facing heavy rain and snowy conditions, it's the responsibility of every driver to exercise caution on the road, and drivers using rental cars should ensure that the rental company has performed all necessary winter car maintenance. So, how can you prepare your beloved vehicle for winter? What maintenance procedures should be carried out during winter car maintenance? Let's answer these questions now.

How to Perform Winter Car Maintenance?

Don't Neglect Regular Maintenance

Regular vehicle maintenance is crucial not only for the winter season but for all seasons throughout the year. Performing regular maintenance is essential to ensure both your vehicle's performance and the safety of the driver. According to various studies, regular vehicle maintenance can prevent at least half of all possible breakdowns and issues that can occur with your vehicle.

Check Your Tires

During the winter season, the most important components of your vehicle that can affect both performance and safety are your tires. Especially in periods of heavy snowfall and icy roads, it's essential to switch to winter-appropriate tires. Vehicle tires play a significant role in maintaining your vehicle's braking balance in winter conditions. Winter tires ensure your brakes perform safely by maintaining proper tire pressure and tread depth. According to experts, ideal winter tires should have a minimum of 3 mm of tread depth.

Keep a Winter Emergency Kit

It's vital to have a winter emergency kit in your vehicle, especially during days with heavy rain or severe winter weather conditions. Having such a kit in your car is crucial in case your vehicle breaks down during harsh winter conditions. Here's what your winter emergency kit should include:

• Reflective vest.
• Non-perishable food and beverages that can be eaten without spoiling (e.g., canned foods).
• Thermal blankets.
• Items for attracting attention, such as flares or signal lights.
• A flashlight and a phone with cold-resistant batteries.

Don't Skip Brake Inspections

Brake inspections for your vehicle are usually performed during regular maintenance check-ups. However, make sure that your vehicle's brake pads, hydraulic system, and discs are checked thoroughly to ensure they're in proper working condition.

Battery Maintenance Is Crucial

Winter weather conditions can have a detrimental effect on your vehicle's battery. The typical lifespan of a vehicle battery is about 5 years. Therefore, it's important to perform battery maintenance before and after the winter season. If your battery's lifespan has expired, don't forget to replace it.

By following these five essential steps for winter car maintenance, you can ensure that your vehicle remains reliable and safe during the challenging winter months.