As the weather gets colder in the Belleville, IL area, that means that snow and ice are starting to fall. One thing that happens when it starts to ice and snow outside is the roads become hazardous. Before you hit any harsh winter conditions, one thing that you will want to do is prepare your car. This is because you need to be ready for any challenges that winter can pose to you. If you are wanting to know the specific ways to do so, continue reading on for our team’s helpful tips!
Having A Cooling System
It is recommended to maintain a ratio between 50/50 and 70/30 of antifreeze to water. With this being said, ask your technician what antifreeze should be used for your vehicle and the appropriate coolant-to-water ratio to prevent corrosion and the then potential freezing. It is incredibly important to use the proper coolant, especially in imported vehicles.
Winter Battery Protection
Battery power decreases as the temperature does drop, meaning that it takes more power to then start your car in the winter. Our technicians can perform a battery test to ensure your vehicle is then ready!
Tire Winter Safety
It is possible to use all-season tires in the winter if you have to. However, this won’t offer you the best performance you may need in your environment. One thing however that could really help in the harsh winter is installing winter tires when winterizing your car. Winter tires use special compounds that help resist hardening in the colder temperatures, and provide better traction on the ice and snow.
Besides switching out your tires completely, checking your tire pressure is just as crucial. With every 10 degrees change in temperature, you can end up gaining or losing 1 PSI of air. This means that you should check your tire pressure during this chilly season. To find out what your vehicle’s proper air pressure should be, check on the tire placard that is in the driver’s side door. It can also be found in the vehicle’s manual.
Having a Full Gas Tank
The last thing that we recommend you do is have a full gas tank to reduce condensation, this can prevent gas lines from freezing up. Not only that, but if you are ever stranded, your engine may be the only thing to keep you warm until help does arrive.
If you do have any questions regarding getting your car in proper winter, give our team at Rowan Tire a call today! We are happy to help you in any way that we can!
