Winter brings with it many car care challenges. Batteries die. Tires slip and slide. Oil thickens. Rain and snow make it hard to see! Make sure you’re ready for anything winter throws your way by following these tips to winterize your car.
1. Get a battery test.
Hot summer weather is hard on your car’s battery, making it especially vulnerable come winter. When temperatures dip, the chemicals in your battery have a tougher time working at full strength.
Check your battery strength before it gets cold to help make sure you don't get stranded on the road in freezing temperatures.
At Tires Plus, you can get your battery tested for free. If you need a new battery, we can install the right one so you can be confident your car is running right, no matter the temperature.
2. Get a tire check.
Our free vehicle inspection includes a check of your car’s tires. We’ll be able to see whether the treads on your tires are deep enough to handle winter driving, and share with you the benefits of winter tires.
“Worn tires should be replaced immediately because they significantly impact safety,” notes AAA. “Testing has shown that tires with only half of their tread depth can take up to 6 feet longer to stop from 40 miles per hour on a wet surface, even with the antilock braking system engaged.”
Your local Tires Plus offers great options for new winter tires that are equipped to help you navigate snowy, icy, and wet conditions, including Firestone Winterforce tires.
3. Get an oil check.
In the winter, your car’s motor oil needs to be operating at its peak, especially since cold temperatures can cause the oil to thicken and flow more slowly.
The Society for Automotive Engineers issues grades for all motor oil, like 5W30. The lower the number before the W (which stands for winter), the better the oil will perform in colder temperatures. Generally, a 5W oil is recommended for winter use, but synthetic oils can be formulated to flow even better when they’re cold.
With a free vehicle inspection at Tires Plus, our professional technicians can tell you whether you need an oil change, and walk you through the benefits of winter grade oil.
4. Get winter wiper blades.
Road visibility is snow laughing matter! When you’re driving in the winter, you want your windshield to be as clear as possible. Special winter wiper blades can prevent ice from collecting on the blades and obstructing your view. Check them out at Tires Plus.
Be prepared for anything winter might throw at your vehicle. Come into your local Tires Plus for all your winter car maintenance, from an oil change to a free battery check, and ask a technician whether Firestone Winterforce tires are right for your vehicle. We’ll walk you through your options so you can choose the right service or tires for your needs. You know your car best, and at Tires Plus, you're in the driver's seat!
