Car

We all how badly the winter weather can affect our automobiles. That is especially the case if you don’t use your car for a week or so over the Christmas period. However, there are many things you can do to limit the chances of any long-lasting damage. Indeed, by performing basic checks and maintenance, you can keep your vehicle in good working order, regardless of the weather conditions. You don’t need to be a trained mechanic to make sure your car runs smoothly, and there is no reason you should take it to your local garage. You should have started looking after your transport solution before now, but if you haven’t, there’s no need to worry. Start today and everything should be fine.

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Check your oil levels weekly

Most cars are more prone to experiencing oil leaks during the cold months. That is because the metal can expand and contract more regularly than it does during the summer. The change in size can cause cracks and holes that could damage your oil tank. Your car uses more oil during that time too, which is why it’s important that you check your levels at least once each week. Looking underneath the vehicle is also a good idea as it should further help to highlight any issues.

Run the engine for five minutes each day

Even if you don’t plan on driving anywhere, it’s still wise to run your engine every day during the winter. Simply turning your key for five minutes can help to warm the car up and keep everything running smoothly. Problems arise when you leave the vehicle sat on a drive or in a garage for long time periods. Don’t worry about using all your fuel as most new models consume very little petrol or diesel when they are at a standstill. If you can take it for a short spin though, that will work in your favor, and it could extend the life of your vehicle.

Assess your brake pads and tires

With the roads being so slippery at this time of year, it’s vital that you check your brake pads and tires regularly. You’ll find all the information you need about how to do that in your owner’s manual. Finding a good towing company in Naperville or anywhere else might be easy these days thanks to the internet, but that doesn’t mean you should rely on others to help. Those services are for emergencies. While your car might be in good hands, having it towed home is not going to help you make it to work on time.

So long as you cover all those basics, your car should remain in good working order throughout January and February this year. With a bit of luck, the weather should pick up again by March, and we can all relax for a few months. Just remember that serious engine problems must be assessed by trained professionals if you want to stay safe. Never try to complete any jobs that seem too complex, or you could do more damage than good.