Proper cold weather engine maintenance
Brrrr… That chill you feel isn’t the goblin that brought you shivers Halloween night. No. It’s winter. It’s here, and it’s time to prepare.
One of the most critical aspects of winter car care is engine maintenance, especially if you live in a climate that is particularly harsh over the next few months. Proper preventative and regular maintenance can help avoid costly breakdowns and untimely delays during a time most of us would rather be indoors. Here at HendrickCars.com, we want to provide a few essentials to help reduce headaches during the coldest of seasons.
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Check and Replace Engine Coolant
Cold weather maintenance starts with something that should be routine, no matter the season. Make sure your vehicle’s coolant system is up to date. It is essential to check your engine coolant and ensure it has the right mixture of water and anti-freeze. In colder climates, a fifty-fifty ratio suggested. Anti-freeze prevents your engine from freezing while maintaining a proper operating temperature. You also need to inspect coolant hoses for any leaks or damage, as that can lead to over-heating.
Use the Correct Motor Oil
A hidden danger of extreme cold weather is the threat that your oil could thicken, making it much more challenging for your engine to circulate and lubricate vital components. To combat this, consult with your closest Hendrick Automotive Group service advisor to have them recommend the best manufacturer-suggested winter grade oil to use. Typically denoted with a ‘W’ in the oil’s viscosity rating -- often 5W-30 or 10W-30. Designed to flow more efficiently during cold-weather conditions, these oils provide better protection during startup.
Test Your Battery
Cold weather can be bad news for your vehicle’s battery. Scientifically speaking, the cold creates unwanted chemical reactions that occur during a battery’s low temperature slow down – reducing its capacity to start your engine. It is essential to have your battery tested before extreme conditions arrive, replacing a weak battery or one at the end of its lifespan. Additionally, keeping your battery terminals clean and ensuring secure connection can also help maintain the health of your vehicle’s electrical system.
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Proper Tire Pressure
One of the more annoying aspect to winter vehicle maintenance is keeping your tires properly inflated. Under inflated tires can reduce fuel efficiency and traction, while overinflated tires can lead to a rough ride and less grip during sketchy driving conditions. Regularly monitor your tire pressure and maintain it to manufacturer-suggested levels. Also, if you live in a climate that traditionally has wintery conditions, consider putting on winter tires for improved traction.
Keep your Engine Warm
This step is particularly useful in extreme conditions. If you are looking to alleviate the issue of difficult winter starts, we would suggest using a block heater or any engine block warmer. These devices keep your engine’s vital components at a higher level, making it much easier to start. Additionally, keep your vehicle in a garage when available, as warmer temperatures and wind protection will help alleviate troubled starts and protect the exterior from damage or wear.
Inspect Belts and Hoses
Cold weather is the enemy of your engine’s rubber components such as belts and hoses, which cab become brittle and prone to cracking. Inspect them for signs of wear and tear, replacing any damaged parts along the way. Regular maintenance of these components can prevent breakdowns and ensure your engine runs smoothly.
Maintain a Full Tank of Fuel
Condensation can form inside your fuel tank whenever temperatures fluctuate, leading to water buildup in your fuel system. To avoid this, keep your fuel tank as full as possible during the winter. This minimizes empty space and helps prevent fuel line freeze.
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Proper cold weather engine maintenance is essential for keeping your vehicle reliable and efficient during the winter months. By following the aforementioned tips and regularly maintaining your engine, you can ensure that your vehicle will start smoothly, operate at its best, and minimize the risk of breakdown. Don’t wait until the first snowfall to prepare your vehicle, start your winter weather maintenance routine today.
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