Winter Car Care Tips

• Posted on December 09, 2019

How to Keep Your Vehicle in Top Shape During Cold Weather

 

With bitter Wisconsin temperatures upon us, it’s time to start thinking about winter car care. Ice, snow and salt can all take a major toll on your vehicle. Winter is rough on our cars, but with a few simple care tips you can ensure your vehicle is not only reliable but also running smoothly throughout the brutal winter months. Without further ado, let’s get into our tips on keeping your vehicle in top shape during cold weather.

 

Battery Power

The worst way to end a workday is to be waiting in the cold for a tow or for someone to jump your car because the battery is dead. Freezing temperatures can do a number on your car battery! For example, at 0° a car battery can lose up to 60% of its strength while also needing about double the current to get your car started. The average car battery lasts anywhere from 3-5 years, so it’s very important to get your battery checked during the colder months to avoid battery failure. Schedule an appointment for a free battery check with the car professionals at WJ Kuhn Automotive today! Here are a few common signs that it might be time for a new battery:

• You hear grinding when you turn on the ignition
• Your vehicle is slow to start
• Your lights dim when idling
• Your battery is more than 3 years old
• You regularly use the power sources in your car such as: cigarette lighters, USBs that power phone chargers, a GPS systems or other electronic devices (these all drain your battery faster)

 

Check Fluids

Just like humans need water to live, our vehicles require essential fluids to function properly. In winter, it’s critical that your car’s fluids are topped off or replaced—WJ Kuhn Automotive can take care of your vehicle’s fluid checks for you. Below are just a few of the main fluids to check in the winter months:

• Brake fluid
• Oil
• Antifreeze
• Transmission fluid
• Gas: keep your take at (or above) a half tank

 

Check Your Tires

Tires lose/gain 1-2 pounds per square inch (PSI) for every 10° change in temperature. In the winter months, the molecules in the air move slower and huddle together, resulting in low tire pressure! Low tire pressure should never be ignored as it can dramatically change the way your car responds to terrain, speed and stopping power—leading to some potentially dangerous situations. Along with checking tire pressure, it’s also important to note your tire’s wear and depth. Most tires are considered to be bald when one or more of their groves are under 2/32” in depth. Get peace of mind by getting your tires checked out with the team at WJ Kuhn automotive.

 

Inspect Brakes

We all count heavily on our vehicle’s brakes to help us safely stop on snow and ice.  It’s common for snow and ice to make its way onto your brake pads and rotors. Add in freezing temperatures and this can cause brake noise such as squealing or grinding. Normal brake noise will be temporary, but if you are experiencing constant brake noise, it’s important to get your brakes inspected at WJ Kuhn Automotive this winter. Brakes are one of the most critical safety features of your vehicle—don’t take the risk of driving with damaged brakes!

 

Survival Kit

Most of us spend a lot of time in our cars commuting, running errands, dropping kids off at school activities or traveling long distances. While none of us expect emergencies to happen, it never hurts to be prepared for the worst—especially in the cold winter months. We recommend either buying a pre-made car survival kit or building your own and keeping it in your car at all times. Below are a few main components to include in your kit:

• Jumper cables
• Basic tools
• Reflective vest
• First aid kit
• Gloves
• Flashlight
• Blanket
• Nonperishable snacks

 

Need help getting your car in tip-top shape for the winter? Make an appointment with the WJ Kuhn Automotive specialists. We offer a wide range of automotive services and collision repair to keep your vehicle running smoothly all year long.

Schedule an appointment here, call us at 414-762-7900 or stop by our convenient location at 8511 S. Howell Avenue in Oak Creek.