Preventing Automotive Problems Caused by Old Man Winter

Most of us have experienced driving in cold weather and our share of breakdowns. Usually a breakdown is due to the neglect of our vehicle; I’m just as guilty as the next guy. We’re busy people! Things we neglect that can cause us to have problems, especially in the winter months:

• Battery
• Antifreeze
• Engine oil
• Window washer fluid
• Wiper blades
• Tires

Here are 6 simple things we can do to help save us from a winter breakdown:

1. Load test the battery. Check and clean the battery connections.
2. Check the condition, strength, and level of the antifreeze. Replace if needed.

Antifreeze concentration test.

3. Check the engine oil condition and level. Replace the engine oil and filter if needed.

Engine oil dipstick location on a Dodge truck.

Checking the level of the engine oil on the dipstick.

4. Refill the window washer bottle and check the spray operation.

Windshield washer bottle.

5. Inspect and replace the wiper blades as needed.

Check the condition of the windshield wiper blades.

6. Inspect the tires for tread wear and pressure; rotate if needed.

Check the tread of the tires for wear.

Check the tire pressure.

Refer to Chilton’s online repair manuals to help keep your vehicle in top shape. Check out ChiltonDIY for repair procedures, maintenance intervals, wiring diagrams, technical service bulletins, Recalls, and more.