To avoid getting stranded on the cold winter roads, be sure your car's fluids are still in good condition. Not sure what to check on? This post has all the information you need!
Car Fluids to Keep an Eye on This Winter
The winter weather and freezing temperatures make this season an especially hard one for your car. Before the temperatures reach their lowest point, make some time to check up on your car. Checking on your car's fluids is a great place to start your winter maintenance routine. If you're not sure what fluids will need to be checked this December, the tips below can help guide your efforts.
Take a Look at Your Brake Fluid
Your brake fluid will absolutely need to be checked on before the winter cold is in full force. Since your brake fluid is needed so that your brakes can perform their job properly, you'll want to be sure there is plenty left in its reservoir. In fact, a significant change in your brake fluid level can indicate you have a serious problem. Since it's in a closed system, there is no reason ;for your brake fluid to disappear. This can often be the result of a leak or another issue. The important thing here is to get this checked by a professional as soon as possible because the slick winter roads are dangerous enough as it is.
Check on Your Coolant
Your car's coolant is responsible for keeping your car running at its ideal operating temperature. Not enough coolant can lead to your car overheating, causing serious and expensive engine troubles. Checking this fluid is really quite easy, so you'll be able to do this all on your own. First, you'll have to identify your car's coolant reservoir. Once your car is cool, open up the reservoir and check how full it is. There should be a marker in the reservoir that will help you identify how full it should be. If it's a bit lower than the marker, top it off with more of the same type of coolant. If your coolant is quite old, it may be time to change it. Check your manufacturer's recommendations to decide if it's time to flush it. Finally, if you mix water in with your coolant, don't use too much water this season since the cold temperatures can actually cause it to freeze.
Top off Your ;Motor Oil
Motor oil is often called the lifeblood of your car, and with good reason. Without it, your car wouldn't get anywhere. During the winter, conventional oils tend to get thick and sluggish because of the cold temperatures. This will result in premature wear and potential damages. Because of this, it's recommended that you use a ;synthetic oil ;that will keep your engine protected all winter no matter how cold it gets outside. ;Synthetic oils ;are made to withstand all conditions, hot or cold, so you can be sure your engine will always be protected.
Before your engine suffers any damage as a result of the cold winter temperatures, prepare it for the freezing conditions with a synthetic oil change in Minneapolis. ;A synthetic oil like AMSOIL's ;Signature Series 0W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil ;will ensure your engine stays well protected through the season. To find more products like this, contact ;All Service Oil ;at ;(763) 257-3130. Don't forget you can also stop by ;their online store ;to browse their full range of ;products.
Inspect Your Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid can be a bit more tricky to inspect because it can sometimes be sealed off. If this is the case with your car, you'll need a professional to help you reach it. If you're able to inspect it on your own, look for a reddish fluid with a sort of sweet smell to it. If your transmission fluid is looking brownish and smells a bit burnt, it may be time for a change. Generally speaking, transmission fluid should be changed every 30,000 miles, but your manufacturer's recommendations will be more accurate.
Check Your Windshield Washer Fluid
Keeping your windshield clean is a must if you want to stay safe on the road. During the winter, storms, snow, and other debris can compromise your visibility on the road, so your washer fluid will be super important. If you're running low, fill up the reservoir so you don't run out at all this season. It's also recommended that you use a winter grade in order to prevent it from freezing in the reservoir.
It's Time for ;a ;Synthetic Oil Change in Minneapolis
Winter is the perfect time to give your car a ;synthetic oil change. ;To keep your engine at its best, use the best synthetic oil ;around. ;All Service Oil ;can help you find the perfect AMSOIL Oil ;for your engine. To learn more, give them a call ;at ;(763) 257-3130.