You wouldn’t head out into cold weather without bundling up, and your vehicle faces similar challenges as the temperature drop. Check out these cold weather tips to prepare your car or truck for winter and your vehicle will run longer and more efficiently.
What You Can Do
Cold weather reduces tire pressure, so check tire pressure often. See your vehicle Owner’s Manual for directions and details.
In extremely cold temperatures, you may have to change the grade of your engine oil. Check your vehicle Owner’s Manual for the viscosity grade recommended for your vehicle’s engine.
Check your wiper blades. Cold temperatures can make blades brittle, and ice on the windshield can cause nicks in the blades, decreasing performance.
WHAT ACDelco CAN DO TO HELP
Even in climates that don’t see subfreezing temperatures or regular snow, the change of season is a great time to have your ACDelco Professional Service Center technician inspect or check the following areas:
Car Battery
Very cold weather reduces the cranking capability of batteries, and a marginal one that worked in the summer may not start your car when the temperature drops. Have the battery inspected and replace it if the cold-cranking amps aren’t sufficient – it’ll be easier in the long run than a couple of jump-starts on a cold morning.
So, if you are in need of a new battery or just want to have yours checked, visit a dealership or reputable ACDelco Service Centre that offers ACDelco batteries or visit our Batteries page.
Belts & Hoses
Extremely cold temperatures can increase the chance of failure for worn or cracked belts. Use the change of season to have them inspected and replaced as necessary.
Tires
Cold temperatures can reduce the air pressure in tires, so making sure the tires are properly inflated can enhance fuel economy and prolong the life of the tires. Also, be sure to have the tread wear inspected.
Windshield Wipers
Colder weather brings precipitation, be it rain, snow, sleet or all of the above. Have your car’s wipers inspected for normal operation and have the wiper blades replaced if they smear, streak or “chatter.” You’ll also want a full reservoir of washer fluid for the colder weather.
