Winter Car Care: Simple Steps to Keep Your Vehicle Running Smoothly

As the mercury dips, it's time to give your car some extra attention. A local mechanic shares some easy tips to keep your vehicle in top shape during the cold months.

Battery Check

• Most batteries last around four years.
• If your car is slow to start, the lights are dim, or the check engine light is on, it might be time for a new one.

Wipers, Tires, and Tune-ups

• Keep an eye on your dashboard lights:
• Red: Stop and fix it now.
• Yellow: Heads-up.
• Green or Blue: Things are working as they should.

Gas Tank

• Don't ignore the gas tank light.
• Keep your tank at least half full.
• Changing temperatures can cause condensation, leading to moisture in the tank.

Frozen Fuel Lines

• Less common these days, but can still happen.
• A bottle of Heet or isopropyl alcohol should do the trick if they do.

Tires

• Check the pressure regularly.
• It's different for every car, so check the placard in your driver's door for the right numbers.

Oil Change

• If you're due for an oil change, go for synthetic oil.
• It flows better in the cold, keeping your engine happy and healthy.