Winter-proof your car: Simple winter care tips for smooth drives
Rough weather conditions can take a toll on your car. Be it summer, monsoon or winter, your car needs proper care so that it stays in good condition and runs smoothly on the roads.
With winters almost here, it is important to take good care of your car as the cold season can be brutal in some parts of India.
The right car care will not only increase the lifespan of your vehicle but also potentially cut down on the cost of maintenance and repairs.
Here are some ways to look after your car during the winter season.
Maintain your car battery:
It is often difficult for a car battery to function well in the cold compared to warm weather. If your car battery is weak, it may die during the winter. So, get your car battery checked, before heading for a long journey, to ensure it is in a proper working condition. If your car battery needs replacement, do it immediately to avoid being stranded on the road.
Check car lights:
As the sun sets early during the winter season, there is less daylight. Thus, ensure that your taillights, fog lights, etc. are working at an optimum level. If the lights are not functioning well, get them checked and repaired or replaced.
Empty and refill engine oil/coolant:
If you have been using your engine oil/ coolant for too long without changing it, just topping it up won’t be enough. It might be time to replace it; also consider using a lighter engine oil during the winter season.
Check the windshield and wipers:
The windshield is an important part of your vehicle as it helps avoid wind, rain, fog, etc. from entering the car. Check your windshield for cracks and get it repaired to avoid water seepage, etc.
Also, check the windshield wipers for cracks or damage. If there is visible damage, it is advisable to replace your wiper blades with new ones.
Check the defroster and climate control:
Fogged windows are a common occurrence during the cold. Ensure the defroster and climate control system are in proper working condition and make necessary repairs or replacements if required.
Check tyres:
Tyres are the first contact point between your vehicle and the road surface and need regular maintenance and upkeep, especially during winters. Check the tyre pressure and ensure it is up to the optimum level. Also, check the tyre for wear and tear, and replace them if necessary.
Warm up your car engine:
Warming your car engine ensures that the engine oil covers every corner of the engine. Rev up your car for a few minutes before moving ahead. This also helps reduce wear and tear of the engine.
Lubricate the door sealings:
It snows in some parts of the country and may lead to ice build-up jamming the car doors and windows. Hence, grease the rubber seals on car doors and windows to prevent ice-build up.
Check the brakes:
In winters, the roads can be wet and slippery. Hence, it is important for brakes to function well. Examine the brake pads and the disc for any damage and get them fixed/ replaced immediately to avoid mishaps during your journey.
Also, ensure that your car is fueled to optimum levels before heading out on long journeys so that you aren’t stranded on the road in the cold. Visit your nearest Nayara Pump to refuel with the right quality and the right quantity of fuel.
