Frigid air and a change in weather patterns can affect your car’s performance. Winters in San Diego aren’t exactly grueling. However, because temperatures drop here at night, there are still a few things you can do to ensure your car continues to run efficiently.
Check Tires
It might surprise you to learn that cold weather affects tire pressure. While San Diego may not get freezing temperatures often, the chilly overnight temperatures can cause the air in your tires to contract, lowering the pressure. It’s always a good idea to make sure your tires are properly inflated before the winter. Of course, it is also important to inspect their tread patterns for wear. If one or more tires appear to be nearing retirement, autumn is the best time to replace them.
Change The Oil
Autumn is a fine time to change your motor oil. If you do the job yourself, make sure you also replace the oil filters. If you don’t know already, consult your owner’s manual for the recommended oil change interval for your vehicle.
Change Wiper Blades
Because drivers typically use their wipers more in the fall and winter, replacing them in the autumn is often wise. Inexpensive and easy to install, you won’t need any special tools or expertise to put them in. All you have to do is purchase replacement blades at your local auto parts store and read the instructions on the back of the package.
Check Fluids
The simplest, most important car care tip is to always check your fluids before the winter. Even if driving conditions won’t be dramatically affected by the weather, the fluids in your car may be. That is why you always want to have a look under the hood in the fall. Make certain all fluid levels are at or near the full line. If the antifreeze, motor oil, brake fluid, or windshield washer fluid are low, simply top them off.
Replace Engine Air Filters
Most automotive experts recommend replacing the air filters in your engine twice a year; once in the spring and again in the fall. Failing to do so could restrict airflow, which often hurts your car’s fuel economy, emissions, and even its driving performance. Just like replacing wiper blades, this is an easy job that anyone can handle without experience or tools.
Follow these simple car care tips to prepare your vehicle for winter driving.
