When winter approaches, your vehicle is put to the test: rain, frost, ice, snow. Roads become slippery, snow, frost and frost make driving conditions more difficult. This is why it is important to prepare your car before winter.
Indeed, in order to spend the winter in the best conditions, regular maintenance as well as a complete check of the condition of your vehicle are recommended.
Need advice on preparing your car before winter? We give you some precautions to take for successful car maintenance.
Choosing suitable tires
Choosing the right tires for your car is essential to guarantee comfort and safety on board. The performance of tires must be evaluated in terms of handling, stability, performance and grip to optimize their lifespan.
Summer tires, winter tires or all-season tires? Although it is legal to ride with each of these tires all year round, it is advisable to choose them according to the season and climate of where you are riding. Below 7 degrees, it is better to turn to winter tires. Thanks to their reliability and resistance, they ensure efficient handling and optimize safety on slippery roads.
Winter tires are recommended on snowy or icy roads.
Check fluid levels
Engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, windshield washer fluid… Fluids play an essential role in the proper functioning of your car. An insufficient oil level can indeed damage certain engine parts if they are not sufficiently lubricated. Likewise, a lack of fluid can cause premature wear of mechanical parts due to friction.
Checking fluid levels should be done immediately before a long trip
First of all, it is necessary to identify the different types of tanks present under the hood. If in doubt, consult your vehicle’s user manual or ask one of our expert workshops. Next, make sure your vehicle is parked on a flat surface so as not to distort the levels and make sure the engine is cold. If the level is insufficient, adjust the fluids.
Check the battery status
In the cold, the battery is put to the test. Breakdowns related to this device are much more frequent in winter. So check that it is working properly by eliminating any traces of corrosion on the clamps.
Also remember to check that the spark plugs do not show signs of oxidation and that they are fulfilling their role in the engine’s ignition system.
If the battery is too old (5 years or more), it may be time to replace it.
Optimize the visibility of automobile glass
Automotive glass is an essential mechanical element of your car. Its mission: to ensure the best possible visibility for the driver and passengers on board. Well-maintained windows help prevent the many dangers of the road. Taking care of it is therefore essential to optimize safety during a long journey.
So remember to check the condition of your windshield wiper blades. Rubbers can harden in the cold. Stock up on special winter windshield washer fluid, which will not freeze in the pipes.
Also equip yourself with all the necessary equipment to scrape the windshield in the event of frost: squeegee, glove, de-icing spray. You can also spray dry windows with white vinegar and cover your car in preparation for frost the next day.
Good to know: it is strongly recommended not to defrost your car’s windshield using a basin of hot water. Thermal shock could cause irreparable damage to the glass, which could lead to cracking.
A broken window? A cracked windshield? Because your comfort and safety are our priorities, our teams support you in the maintenance and repair of your car windows: windshields, side windows, rear windows, mirror headlights.
Finally, don’t forget to check the headlight bulbs (high beam, low beam, fog lights and indicators) to see and be seen clearly by other road users.
Monitor the heating…and air conditioning system
Imagine a winter without heating or a summer without air conditioning… Essential elements of your comfort in the car, it is recommended to regularly check their operating condition to guarantee an ideal temperature in the passenger compartment.
During winter, the state of ventilation must be checked. A clogged cabin filter can significantly reduce airflow from the blower and prevent the windshield from defogging. The ventilation system then becomes less powerful. In case of wear, contact a
professional to replace the cabin filter.
