Top 10 Winter Car Care Tips

Driving conditions impact your vehicle as the weather changes.  Here are ten helpful things to consider while preparing your car for this winter season.

While those of us living in the Greater Sacramento region are privileged to enjoy mild winters, ensuring that our vehicles are properly maintained and cared for is a year-round enterprise.

These 10 winter car care items to check can help keep you and your family safe on the road this season.

1. Brakes

Making sure that your brakes are in good working order might be your best defense against harsh winter driving conditions. It is important to check these before any long trips or before conditions become too impactful. If you need your brakes checked for peace of mind, Five Star Auto Center offers a free brake check inspection!

2. Tires

Did you know that for every temperature drop of ten degrees Fahrenheit, your tires lose a pound of pressure? Consequently, you should check that your tires are properly inflated. Inspect your tire pressure at least once a month. Winter is also a good time for a tire rotation. In addition, make sure your tires have enough tread. This can protect your vehicle from hydroplaning in rain and snow. While tires with average tread can carry you through summer, driving on worn tires in the winter might land you in unfortunate circumstances. This advisory is also the reason you should check that your spare tire and jack are in good working condition.

3. Battery

Cold temperatures can cause stress on your battery and reduce cranking power. Check your car battery’s power to ensure that you are ready for winter and keep yourself from being stranded this winter.

4. Wiper Blades

Wiper blades generally require replacement every 12 months. Replace worn or dried out wiper blades this winter to maintain visibility during rain and snow storms.

5. Washing and Waxing

A high-pressure undercarriage wash this winter can rinse away dirt and build-up in hard-to-reach areas. Dirt, mud, and oil residues are kicked up in winter storms and land in wheels, wheel wells and undercarriage areas. This can affect your car’s performance. In addition, consider a polymer wax to protect your vehicle’s exterior from frost and sleet during the winter. Our 25% off winter fast pass promotion can save you money and hassle.

6. Lighting

Driving with low lighting in winter is a dangerous prospect. Now is the time to inspect your lighting and replace any burnt out bulbs. A headlight restoration package will improve your visibility and give your vehicle the best chance of being seen

7. Oil Change

The “W” on your oil grade stands for winter and indicates the oil’s cold weather rating! A lower number motor oil means the oil will perform better in cooler temperatures. Right now, Five Star Auto Center offers a discount on oil changes. While under the hood, we can check your hoses, as well as your washer fluid levels. A full washer fluid reservoir is ideal for keeping your windshield clear and maintaining visibility in winter.

8. Fluid Changes

Winter is a great time for maintenance of your radiator and transmission. Get a tune-up and consider changing your transmission fluid and coolant(antifreeze) for optimal winter performance.

9. Heater and Defroster

Check your car’s heating and defrosting system to ensure both your comfort and safety this winter.

10. Survival Kit

Whether store-bought or do-it-yourself, a vehicle survival kit is a must have this winter. It should contain items like a shovel, gloves, boots, an ice scraper, a first-aid kit, a knife, a flashlight, jumper cables and a cellphone charger, among other items.