Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter in 8 Simple Steps: Part Two

Winter weather is hard on vehicles. Stop by Joe’s Service Department in Indianapolis for a tune-up and routine maintenance to make sure your car is well-prepared for the snow and ice. Generally, we recommend taking the following eight precautions each winter to keep your car in proper working order. See our previous post for the first four steps.

Winter Car Maintenance

5. Change Brake and Washer Fluids

Keeping a car clean during the winter is notoriously difficult. While this applies to paint jobs and floor mats, it also applies to brake fluid. Changes in temperature can cause precipitation to build up in the brake lines, which compromises the integrity of your brake fluid. When you bring your car in for a tune-up, we will assess the condition of your brake fluid and replace it as necessary. Similarly, we recommend using a winter washer fluid that won’t freeze when you need it the most.

6. Rotate the Tires

Tire rotation is important any time of the year, but especially during the winter. Tires don’t always wear evenly, and, without the occasional rotation, can affect the stability of your vehicle. Again, during a tune-up, our mechanics will assess and inflate your tires as necessary. Don’t take for granted the safety provided by properly aligned, installed, and inflated tires, especially during the winter.

7. Replace Wiper Blades

Snow and ice are hard on wiper blades. Each year, invest in a quality set of wiper blades that will last through the winter. This simple, inexpensive item can make all the difference in your ability to see clearly in poor conditions.

8. Keep the Gas Tank at Least Half Full

Cold temperatures can cause moisture to build up in the fuel tank, placing strain on the fuel pump and engine. To avoid this, we recommend keeping your fuel tank at least half full at all times. This leaves less room for moisture to build up and cause damage. Similarly, try to keep the tank full in cars that are rarely used during the winter months. This will help prevent moisture from building up in the lines and causing damage to the vehicle.

Contact Us

To make sure your car remains safe for the road this winter, contact Joe’s at (317) 405-8456. In addition to tune-ups and routine maintenance, we also perform an array of auto repair services, including general repairs, brake service, wheel alignment, and more.

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