With the cold front sweeping across the Valley, vehicle maintenance takes center stage. Ensuring your car is winter-ready is crucial to prevent accidents and unexpected breakdowns.
Adjusting Tire Pressure for Cold Weather
Experts emphasize the importance of calibrating tire pressure, which can drop by 5 to 10 pounds due to cold weather. Properly inflated tires provide better traction and can significantly reduce the risk of accidents on icy roads.
Winter Vehicle Inspections
Vehicle owners are urged to schedule winter vehicle inspections to check batteries, brake systems, and antifreeze levels. A well-maintained battery will ensure your car starts reliably in freezing temperatures, while a robust brake system is critical for safe driving. Adequate antifreeze levels are essential to prevent irreparable damage to cooling system components.
Warming Up Vehicles
Remember, it’s advised to warm up your vehicle for 2 to 5 minutes before hitting the road. For older models, at least 5 minutes is recommended to ensure all components are functioning optimally in the cold.
