In the chilly winter months, our four-wheeled travel companions need extra care and attention. Just as we take care of ourselves during this season by dressing warmly to prevent illness, we also need to take care of our cars to keep them running smoothly without any breakdowns. In India, maintaining the health of your car’s engine and other mechanical components is essential for ensuring reliable performance in the winter season. Considering this, we have compiled a list of five top car maintenance and care tips to save you from trouble on those chilly days. These car care suggestions are not only simple but also affordable. We assure you that if you follow these measures, your four-wheelers will not strand you in any unpleasant situations. Whether it’s engine care or tyre maintenance, we’ve got you covered in this cold season with the following essential car care tips.
Quality Engine Checks A Day, Keeps Breakdowns Away
Engine and battery issues account for the majority of unexpected car breakdowns. Long-term parking causes the oil in our cars to accumulate in the sump underneath the combustion compartment. The oil tends to consolidate or become more dense when the temperature decreases. When this happens, letting the engine rest for a short while will allow the oil to warm up properly and lubricate the entire machine. It is important to remember that driving your car below the appropriate temperature will affect both the fuel efficiency and the engine’s lifespan.
Furthermore, before driving your four-wheeler in the winter, you should perform a battery voltage test. Refill the battery if the test results show it is only depleted. However, if the battery is damaged, replace it with a new one.
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Proper Lighting System, A Way to Prevent Road Hazards
The car’s lighting system is used more often in the winter than it is in the summer since the sun sets earlier. As a result, in this situation, paying great attention to the car’s headlights and taillights becomes crucial. Insufficient illumination on a car can make it difficult to see in foggy weather, especially on highways, which can result in accidents. Therefore, it is essential to evaluate this equipment’s effectiveness and replace it as needed.
Clean Windshield, Safe Driving
When it’s chilly outside and there is frost, mist, or fog on your windshield, it can be tough for you to see the road ahead. For this purpose, you must regularly check the windshield, and verify that the windshield wipers are devoid of marks and cracks. A clean windshield enhances visibility and lowers the risk of accidents.
Check Tyres Before Taking Your Four-Wheeler On a Ride
Rides on your four-wheeler are always pleasant, regardless of the weather. However, before taking your travel buddy for a ride during the colder months, inspect the tyres for scratches or bubbles, along with surface abrasion. Low tyre pressure is a frequent issue in cold weather. Hence, maintaining your car’s tyre pressure is extremely important for preventing early tyre wear and other difficulties.
Additionally, make sure that your car has snow-ready tyres if you plan to go to a snowy location. Conventional tyres are unlikely to provide you with much grip in the snow. However, if you don’t have such tyres, then carry snow tyre chains, which can help increase traction between the surface and the wheel.
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Say No to Car Slipping With Proper Brakes Inspection
The roads can be dangerous when it’s snowy and wet. For this reason, you should keep an eye on your car’s brakes. To keep you safe, the brakes must perform properly. To reduce wear and strain, it is important to have a professional mechanic inspect the braking disc and pads regularly. If there is a major issue, you should get them altered.