Very Cold Temperatures Are On The Way – Is Your Car Ready?
Single digit cold temperatures are on the way this week, is your car ready? There are a few things to check on your car to make sure it's ready for the Iowa winter.
The most important thing is to check your antifreeze. Your car should be able to stand temperatures down to -35°F. Local parts stores sell antifreeze testers and if you don't know how or haven't had yours tested this season, now would be a good time to have it checked.
Check your oil. Being outside for an extended period of time in cold weather is no fun. Make sure your oil is at a safe level. While you're under the hood, check your windshield washer fluid too. With the sloppy winter roads, you'll be going through a bunch of washer fluid this season. If you need to buy some, I suggest the non-freezing washing fluid. Don't go cheap.
Talking about windshield washer fluid, how are your wiper blades? Winter is very tough on them and not having a clear windshield can cause all kinds of problems. Most parts stores will help you install them once you buy them or have your local mechanic replace them for you.
How old is your battery? Batteries over 5 years old can go bad at any time. If your battery is over 5 years old, I would suggest having it replaced. If not, I would carry a pair of jumper cables with you.
Check the pressure of your tires. With the colder weather, your tire pressure will drop and less air pressure drops your miles-per-gallon and can cause an unexpected flat. Changing a tire in fridge temperatures is not fun. I always make sure my vehicles have 40 pounds of air pressure going into the winter months.