Temperatures in California do not get as cold in the winter months as other parts of the country. However, that does not mean that you do not need to prepare your car for winter. During the winter months, your car in California may be exposed to rain and cold morning temperatures. Here are a few of the steps you should take to prepare your car for winter.
Have Your Tires Inspected
It is strongly recommended that you have your tires recommended before winter hits. When tires are inspected, a professional is looking for signs of damage to your tire, low tread and pressure issues. Rain can make roads slick and some mornings, temperatures can dip below freezing, leaving a small amount of ice on the roads. If your tire tread is low, you may slide on the road, which can lead to an accident. If your tires are damaged, it is recommended that you replace them prior to winter.
Replace Your Windshield Wipers
During the winter months, rain can fall from the sky. You may not think much about your windshield wipers until you need to use them. If they are worn, they can smear water instead of wiping it away, which can make it hard to see. Before the rainy season hits, make sure to test your windshield wipers and replace them if they are smudging or smearing water.
Get Your Oil Changed
Having clean oil helps to protect your engine. This is extremely important in freezing weather. While temperatures do not always hit the freezing point in California, there are night and mornings where the temperatures can dip below freezing. Having clean oil helps your car to start and protects the engine on those days when it is extremely cold out.
Ensure Your Heater and Defrosting System Work
Windshields can get icy and it can get cold in your car during the winter months. The last thing you want is to head out to your car on a cold morning only to discover that your heating and defrosting system is not working properly. Prior to winter, take the time to turn on your car’s heater and defrosting system to ensure that everything works as it should. If it does not, take your car to an auto repair shop to have it fixed before you need to use it.
Inspect and Test Your Battery
Lastly, be sure to inspect and test your battery. As you inspect your battery, be on the lookout for dents or signs of corrosion. Clean the connections and remove build-up to help the battery start easier. Finally, having a professional test the battery. Batteries nearing the end of their life are more prone to failing in cold weather than warmer weather. Testing the battery helps you to know that it is time to replace the battery prior to your car unexpectedly failing to start.
Do you need to get your car ready for winter? Here at Morgan Automotive we can help you with all of your auto repair needs, including ensuring your car is ready for winter in California. Call our car repair shop to schedule an appointment to bring your car in to be serviced.