No matter how sophisticated automotive technologies gets, nature will always prove whos really boss. Although most modern-day cars come with advanced features such as climate control to combat extreme climatic conditions, car owners can also do their share of work to better equip their vehicles to endure the hostility of nature. Whether you are planning to buy a car through an auto auction or already own one, this blog post is for you. Read on to learn some simple tips to winterize your car.
Replace Wiper Blades
The build-up of winter precipitation and salt deposited on the windshield can reduce the visibility of the driver to a great extent. To have a clear vision of the road, even during deadly snow storms, the car’s wiper and wiper blades should be in working condition and have enough supply of wiper fluid. As wiper blades are mostly good for a year, before facing foggy winter days, you may want to replace them with wiper blades designed especially for winter weather.
Install Fog Lamps
Though most vehicles come with factory-installed fog lamps, the stock lamps are not very effective during extreme weather conditions such as snow, fog, and rains. To have a better visibility of the road you would need fog lights, designed to shine below the mist and haze. Good quality fog lamps allow drivers to see road edges, lane marking, and the foreground. Fog lamps would also allow other drivers to see your vehicle on the road.
Change the Engine Oil
Though not a common practice; if you are expecting to combat extremely low temperatures, you may also consider changing the engine oil. A significant drop in temperature increases the viscosity of regular engine oil, which affects the lubrication in the engine. To ensure your car’s engine runs smoothly even in extreme winter, use oil that is thinner than the regular engine oil. To find the right viscosity level you need in winter, check your car’s owner’s manual
Top Off the Antifreeze
Topping off your car’s radiator with antifreeze prevents the coolant from freezing in winter. Make sure the antifreeze and water solution in the radiator is about 50:50. To check the right ratio of the radiator fluid, you can use an antifreeze tester, easily available at a local auto parts store.
Get Snow Tires
If you live in an area that experiences heavy snowfall for most winter, it is advisable to replace your car’s regular tires with snow tires. Unlike all-season tires, snow tires are made of soft rubber and special tread patterns that allow better traction in the snow than any regular variety.
Wrap Up
Whether you are in New Jersey or any other cold region, the tips mentioned in the blog post will surely go a long way in ensuring a trouble-free winter. If you are looking to buy a car through auto auctions, SalvageBid is a name you can trust. Explore our extensive listing of salvage and clean title vehicles and own your dream machine at a dream price. If you have any questions about any of the options listed in our auto auctions, fill out our contact form or simply call +1 (360) 347-1300.