Winter Maintenance Tips

Have Your Tires Checked

Bald tires or tires with low air pressure are not safe. This is especially true if there is snow or ice on the ground. You can check the health of your tire treads yourself using just a penny. If you put the penny in the tires' grooves and you can see Abraham Lincoln's entire head, it is time to look into buying new tires. You also need to check the air pressure to ensure you don't have too much or too little air in them.

Antifreeze Flush

If it has been over five years since your last antifreeze flush, or if you don't know the last time one was performed, you should have this service performed before winter begins. Over time, dirt, debris, metal, and other particles can build up in the antifreeze, making it less effective. When you have the antifreeze flushed, the old, degraded fluid will be flushed out, and it will be replaced with clean, fresh antifreeze.

Have the HVAC System Inspected

The last thing that you want is for your vehicle's heater to break down on a cold winter day. Before the temperature outside gets cold, you should have your vehicle's HVAC system inspected. If there is an issue with the heater, the seat warmers, or the steering wheel warmer, it can be repaired before you rely on these things the most.

Battery Inspection

Before winter, you should have your battery tested and inspected. When it is cold outside, your battery's capacity lessens. You want to be sure that your battery has enough juice in it to keep the car running. The last thing you want is to end up on the side of the road during a storm with a dead battery. During the inspection, the mechanic will check the integrity of the battery cables, and they will make sure that the connections are not rusted and corroded.

Windshield Washer and Wipers

During the winter, you will rely greatly on your windshield wipers and washer. If it is raining or snowing, you will need your wipers to see clearly. When there is salt on the streets, it can kick up, causing your windshield to get dirty. You would need to use your windshield washer to clean the windshield so you can see clearly. Before winter begins, you should have your wipers checked to be sure they are ready for winter. You should also make sure that your windshield washer is topped off.

Schedule Servicd For Winter

To be sure that your vehicle is ready for winter, schedule an appointment for winter maintenance with Hagerstown Kia. We have an expert group of highly trained and skilled technicians when it comes to vehicle maintenance and repair. If you are going to wait for your vehicle, we have a comfortable waiting area complete with free WiFi and refreshments. If you cannot wait, you can take advantage of our shuttle service. To schedule an appointment for winter maintenance, give us a call today.