Winter Car Maintenance Tips

In Ohio, winter brings with it more than just bone-chilling temperatures and short days. The season is often marked by ice, snow, and other inclement weather events. These can make driving hazardous. To help other Ohio drivers, the Glockner Family of Dealerships offers the following winter car maintenance tips: 

1. Swap Out Your Windshield Wiper Blades

Your windshield wiper blades are probably one of those things on your vehicle that you don't think about until you use them. If you're like many people, it is only then that you remember how streaky your windshield gets when you turn them on or that they miss whole patches of glass as they sweep across it. 

It's a good idea to plan to replace them at least every six months. If you use them often -- or if you find that they have signs of wear like those mentioned above -- you might even need to purchase new ones even more often. 

2. Check Your Tires

The tires on your vehicle can make a huge difference in the way it handles and how much control you're able to maintain. Winter in Ohio is the last place you want to discover that they need to be replaced. 

If you see bulges, uneven wear, or loss of tread on your tires, it's time to replace them. Head to any one of the Glockner Family of Dealerships if you need assistance with determining the condition of your tires. That's also a good place to discuss whether all-season or snow tires are the best option for the road conditions and your driving habits. 

3. Maintain Your Oil

The purpose of your engine's oil is to keep the moving parts well lubricated as well as reduce friction and heat. Ensuring that the engine oil is in the best condition possible is even more important during the long, cold, and harsh Ohio winter. 

Because engine oil gets thicker when it's cold, your vehicle's motor could be more difficult to start. That's why it's important to use engine oil that has the right viscosity. 

Be sure to always follow the manufacturer's recommendations when it comes to the type of motor oil. In nearly all cases, the engine oil formula that's recommended by the car manufacturer will have a "W" in it. This means that the oil is specially designed to be used during the winter months. 

4. Check the Hoses and Belts

A precise system of belts and hoses ensures that all the components of your vehicle's engine work together. Be sure to check all the hoses -- such as the heater and radiator hoses -- and belts to ensure that they're in good condition. 

They should be free of leaks, brittleness, cracks, and contaminants like grease and oil. While hoses should be pliable when they are squeezed, they should also be firm too. Replace them if they feel very soft. 

5. Examine Your Anti-Freeze

The purpose of the anti-freeze in your vehicle is to ensure that liquid is always available to cool the radiator. In general, a 50/50 mixture of anti-freeze and water is ideal. This ratio will ensure that the coolant doesn't freeze until the temperatures dip below freezing. 

In some cases, using a ratio of 60/40 -- with antifreeze making up the higher percentage -- or even 70/30 might be warranted. Head to the Glockner Family of Dealerships for advice and assistance regarding the right antifreeze to water ratio for your vehicle. 

6. Check Your Battery

When the winter temperatures fall, vehicle batteries can suffer. The frigid weather can reduce its ability to crank your engine by as much as 50 percent or more. 

If your vehicle's battery is maintenance-free, check that it is fully charged by looking in the window on top of it. However, if your battery is five years old or older, it's best to go ahead and replace it. 

Another reason to replace it is if the battery has been showing signs that it is weakening. This could mean that it is taking longer for your vehicle to turn over when you attempt to start it. 

At the Glockner Family of Dealerships, we're here to help Ohio drivers -- and their vehicles -- get through the winter. Contact any of our area locations if you need help with your vehicle's winter maintenance.