Although it’s no secret that Alaska’s extreme winter weather can be harsh on our vehicles, many people don’t know how to properly take care of their cars to avoid common problems such as dead batteries, clogged fuel lines, or foggy windshields. By following a few simple tips, though, you can help ensure that your car is better able to withstand the cold weather and that you have a more pleasant and safe experience while driving this winter.
1. Oil and Oil Filter Care
No matter the time of year, oil changes are essential to the health and performance of your vehicle, but in winter weather conditions changing out the oil is crucial. As the temperature drops, oil viscosity decreases (meaning, it gets thicker). This makes it harder for your engine to start since the oil acts as glue, literally sticking the parts together, rather than lubricating them. Keeping up with your oil changes to ensure the oil is fresh and clean can keep your engine lubricated properly and will help to ensure easier cold starts. But, depending on your vehicle type, you should consider switching to a lower viscosity or synthetic oil, both of which perform better in extreme cold temperatures.
Additionally, each time you change the oil, be sure to change the filter, but not just any filter does the trick. There are distinct differences between brands. You should select a filter designed to withstand the additional pressure that thickened, cold oil can generate. With fresh, faster-flowing oil and the right oil filter, your engine will have an easier time starting in the cold.
2. Cold Weather Battery Care
Cold temperatures can cause the charge in your battery to drain faster than usual. If you want to avoid that heart-sinking “click-click-click” dead-battery sound, consider investing in an engine heater. Engine heaters help make starting your car in cold weather easier, which in turn reduces strain on the battery and other components. Generally, you should plug in your engine heater about 2 hours before you need to start the vehicle.
When it comes to types of engine heaters, you have several options to choose from, but your local mechanic can help you select the best option for your vehicle and environment. If your car or truck is fitted with a molded port, consider having your mechanic install an after-market engine block heater. As far as battery health is concerned, if you don’t regularly drive your vehicle in winter, we suggest installing a battery trickle charger. This will keep the battery fresh as long as the trickle charger is plugged in.
3. Winter Formula Fluids
Think of the fluids in your vehicle like the blood in our veins. Just like you need to maintain a healthy level of cholesterol in your arteries, you need to keep your car’s lines and reservoirs free of debris and gunk. So, just as oil and oil filter changes are a must (see Tip #2), you should also flush and refill the coolant (antifreeze) at least every two years.
Between changes, be sure to keep the antifreeze and other fluids topped off. And, be sure to use fluids formulated for cold temperatures, such as cold weather premixed coolant (up to a 70/30 ratio), and a winter blend of windshield-washer fluid that has alcohol or other antifreeze agents.
4. Winter Wiper Blades
Consumer Reports testing has found that even the best wipers can start to lose their, erm, “edge” in as little as six months. Let’s be real. Most of us don’t replace our wiper blades twice a year as most manufacturers recommend, but a new set in winter — especially one that’s designed for snow and ice — will help ensure proper visibility in already risky road conditions.
5. Fuel Line Care
The gas in a vehicle’s fuel tank won’t freeze, of course, but water can accumulate in the lines and tank, which can lead to troublesome frozen fuel lines. The solution here is pretty simple: just fuel up more frequently, keeping your tank close to full or at least half full.
You can also use a winter-formulated fuel additive, or gas-line antifreeze, to help absorb water that accumulates in the tank and gas lines. The additive will also help prevent rust and corrosion and will help keep the lines clean and free of debris.
6. Exterior Car Care
Prepping and maintaining an engine for cold weather is important, but don’t forget about the vehicle’s exterior. Harsh winter elements like snow, sleet, salt, and extreme cold can wreak havoc on a vehicle’s exterior. Just the mere combination of salt and moisture is a recipe for rust! Protect your paint job and prevent rust-causing buildup with frequent high-pressure washes. Be sure to give special care to areas that are more exposed and susceptible to these harsh elements, like the wheels and undercarriage. Finish the job with a high-quality polymer wax.
7. Tire Care
A dedicated winter tire is designed to give you better grip and control in snowy and icy conditions. Not only will they help keep you and others safe on the roads this winter, but the investment lasts 3-5 years with proper care and storage between seasons.
Keeping an eye on your tire pressure is also especially important during the winter months. Tires can lose air pressure more quickly in cold weather, so it’s a good idea to check them about once a week and add air as often as needed. Refer to your owner’s manual or ask your local mechanic if you’re not sure what the pressure should be, but it’s usually between 32-40 PSI (pounds per square inch).
Car Care with Metropolitan Garage
Follow these cold-weather car care tips to help keep your vehicle looking good and running well this winter season. For additional tips, friendly advice, or reliable maintenance and repairs, stop by Metropolitan Garage in Fairbanks, AK. Give us a call or schedule an appointment online. Stay warm out there, and happy driving!