 | Jeff Lovell is the owner of Neptune Radiator and Auto Repair. He started a radiator repair shop in 1996 and has grown over the last 15 years into an automotive repair shop. With 3 ASE Certified technicians including 1 Master ASE Certified technician, they have over 40 years of combined experience. They do everything except glass and body repair. For more information please contact us at 620.231.5890 or visit us at 902 West 4th Street. |
Automotive Service & Repair
2011-12-27 13:23:11
Winterizing your car
Q: We have never had to winterize anything. Can you give me a few tips for winterizing my vehicles?
A: With a little effort, winterizing your vehicles is important to keep them running smoothly, and safely. It is actually fairly simple. Let’s hit the basics.
First, you want to be sure to check your cooling system. You make sure you have a 50:50 mix of anti-freeze and water inside your radiator. If there isn’t enough anti-freeze in the mix, it could potentially freeze in the cold weather (especially SEK cold weather).
Similarly, check your windshield washer solvent. You need a liquid with a higher concentration of washer solvent so your wiper spray does not freeze as the temperature drops. Visibility is most important when driving in snow, sleet and/or hard rain.
Replace wiper blades with ones made for winter use and will hold up well with snow and ice.
Check your battery’s charge level. Winter cold can weaken a battery, which may leave you stranded and in a dangerous situation.
Check your tire pressure and tread. You need extra traction to keep you on the road. You may even consider investing in specially designed winter tires to throw on your vehicle during these months.
Remember to remove snow before driving your car. Snow on the hood or elsewhere can fly into the windshield and obstruct your view.
Never defrost your windshield with hot water. The temperature difference will cause it to crack or shatter.
Keep your gas tank at least half full at all times. This will help decrease the chances of moisture forming in the gas lines and then freezing.
Be prepared for an emergency. Get a winter emergency kit that is suitable for the maximum number of people that may be in the vehicle. These kits will have flashlights, flares, water and emergency blankets for warmth.
Lastly, know what to do if you get stranded. Never wander away from your vehicle. Use your flares to draw attention and wait patiently inside the vehicle. Keep extra clothes in the car for such an emergency, and put them on. Keeping a supply of hard candy can also help if you are stranded for several hours in keeping your mouth dry and keeping blood sugar up.
