Regardless of the season—be it the relentless rains of the monsoon, the scorching heat of summer, or the biting cold of winter—your car demands consistent care to maintain its top-notch condition. Start your winter car care routine with a thorough examination of your tires. Check and top up the levels of essential fluids such as oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid. Cold weather can be particularly harsh on car batteries. Before winter sets in, have your battery tested to ensure it's in good condition. Clean the terminals and connections, and consider replacing an ageing battery to prevent unexpected breakdowns in the chilly weather. Your car's braking system is paramount for safety. Have your brakes inspected, including the brake pads and fluid. Shield your car's exterior from the winter elements. Regularly wash your vehicle to remove accumulated road salt, grime, and snow, and pay attention to the undercarriage for thorough protection. Ensure your heating and defrosting systems are in optimal condition. Prepare for unforeseen circumstances by assembling an emergency kit. Include items such as a blanket, extra warm clothing, a flashlight, and non-perishable snacks.
Regularly inspect all exterior lights, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. Replace any bulbs that have burned out, ensuring your car remains visible to other drivers in low-light or snowy conditions. Protect the interior of your car from the winter chill. Invest in rubber floor mats to prevent moisture and salt from damaging the carpet. Stay proactive in maintaining your vehicle by scheduling regular check-ups with a qualified mechanic.
1. Check your car lights
During the winter season, the sun sets early in the day, which means there is less daylight. Therefore, you’ll want to ensure your car’s lights are working at their optimum level. If the car lights (headlights, tail lights, turn indicators, and reverse headlights) are not working, get them checked and replace them.
2. Maintenance of your car battery
Your car battery may find it more challenging to operate in cold weather than hot weather. A weak battery may operate during warm weather, but it is likely to die during the winter season. Before a long journey, get the battery checked to make sure it is in working condition. If it needs to be replaced, ensure you do so immediately, so you don’t end up being stranded on the road.
3. Empty and fill engine oil/coolant
Just topping up the engine oil or the coolant may not be the solution if you have been using it for too long without changing it. It is suggested that you consider using a lighter engine oil that is right for the cold weather conditions. Go through the owner’s manual to find out the manufacturer's recommended temperature ranges and fill the engine oil and coolant accordingly.
4. Check the condition of windshield wipers
Windshield wipers play an important role in cold conditions, and they do not have a long lifespan. If there are visible cracks or damages, it is better to replace them with new wiper blades.
5. Inspect the windshield for cracks
The car’s windshield is an integral part of the vehicle. It helps avoid wind, rain, fog or snow from entering the cabin. Hence, perform a thorough check to identify cracks or seepage of water. During cold weather, fog, mist, or frost could accumulate on the car’s windshield, hampering your vision of the path ahead. You can solve this issue by balancing the temperature inside and outside the vehicle using the climate control system or the defroster.
6. Test the defroster and climate control
The defroster keeps your car windows from getting icy or foggy, and the climate control system works to keep you warm. Ensure both are in working condition and make suitable repairs or replacements if required.
7. Check the tyre pressure and tread depth
Tyres are the first contact point between the car and the surface. Check the tyre pressure and ensure it is up to the prescribed limits. Also, check the tyre depth for wear and tear, and replace them if necessary.
8. Warm up your car engine
Among the simplest methods of winter care for your car during cold conditions is warming your car engine. It helps the engine oil cover every engine's nook and corner. Revving the engine for a few minutes should help the engine warm-up and perform to its optimum levels.
9. Examine the brakes
In wet conditions, the roads can be slippery; hence, you need good brakes to help you avoid mishaps. Examine the brake pads and the disc for wear and tear, and get them replaced if required.
10. Renew car insurance
Repairing the damages to your car due to cold conditions can be expensive. It is prudent to keep your car insured at all times to mitigate financial losses during such instances. You can renew car insurance instantly through our online platforms such as our website or mobile app. Simply scroll up to the top of this page, complete the online car insurance renewal process, and get the policy document instantly.
Key Features
- Winter Travel Preparedness: The article emphasizes the importance of preparation before driving in cold conditions, offering practical tips for a safe journey.
- Weather Check: Advises readers to check current weather conditions and forecasts online before embarking on their winter travels, promoting informed scheduling.
- Carry Warm Clothing: Recommends keeping essential winter clothing in the car, including gloves, scarves, hats, thick socks, hand and foot warmers, and blankets for added warmth and comfort.
- Medication and First-Aid Kit: Highlights the necessity of carrying medications needed during long journeys and emphasizes the importance of having a well-stocked first-aid kit for emergencies.
- Jumper Cables: Suggests adding jumper cables to the list of necessities, providing a practical solution for potential dead battery situations during winter trips.
Winters can be brutal in certain parts of India. Thus, taking proper steps to prepare your car for the winter is essential. This can increase the lifespan of your vehicle. The right car care can potentially reduce the cost of maintenance or repairs.