INDEPENDENT DEALER

   Idaho Falls, ID | (208) 524-0322

OUR BLOG

12/19/2018
As the weather gets more and more chilly, you may not be the only one suffering in the cold. Your car can also experience some negatives as a result of the cold weather.

Do You Know How the Cold Can Affect Your Car?

Winter weather is great for snuggling up by the fire and drinking hot cocoa to keep warm. For your car, however, winter weather mostly means freezing nights and mornings spent out in the cold. Contrary to popular belief, your car can feel the effects of the cold. From issues with the battery to thick fluids, there are plenty of things that will need to be checked by you. To help you get started, check out these tips from ;Schell Distributing Inc.

Issues With Your Tires

During the summer the hot temperatures can cause your tire pressure to increase all on its own. When the winter cold arrives, the opposite is bound to happen. Because tire pressure can decrease as a result of outdoor temperatures, you'll have to keep an eye on your tire pressure and make the necessary adjustments when needed. Tire pressure that's a little lower than normal may not seem like a big deal but it can lead to reduced traction and harder maneuverability, especially on the slick winter roads. If you're expecting especially low temperatures this winter, keep in mind that normal tires may not always be the best option. The rubber on these can get quite hard in freezing conditions leading to reduced grip. On the other hand, winter tires will stay soft, giving you better traction.

Dead or Dying Battery

Your car's battery can take a beating during the winter because the reduced temperatures mean added strain. If your battery is already nearing its end, the freezing temperatures can lead to it dying out even faster than expected. Your best bet is to get your battery's voltage tested so that you have a better idea of how long it will actually last. If it's near its end, you're better off replacing it since you probably don't want to end up stranded on the road on a cold winter night. If you don't already have jumper cables, now is the time to get some. Leave them in your trunk in case of an emergency.

Thick Fluids

It's no secret that cold temperatures tend to make fluids freeze. When it comes to your car's fluid, they may not freeze completely, but your fluids can become thick, sluggish, and less effective as a result. In order to keep your car well protected, you need these to flow quickly so get winter grade fluids where needed. Before the season is in full effect, check on your antifreeze, brake fluid, transmission fluid, windshield wiper fluid, and oil. Change any that are too old and top off those that are simply running lower than they should. Looking for a motor oil that won't get sluggish in the winter cold? Get a ;synthetic oil change in Idaho Falls ;and forget about stressing over your oil this winter. ;Contact ;Schell Distributing Inc. to get recommendations for products like ;AMSOIL's ;Signature Series 0W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil, a synthetic oil that will keep your engine protected no matter what season it is. ;Give them a call at ;(208)524-0322 ;or visit their ;online store ;for even more products.

Corrosive Road Salt

If you're driving through snow regularly, you'll probably come across some road salts. While this substance is great for removing snow on the road, it's actually quite corrosive and can mean trouble for your car. You may not see it on your car's body, but chances are it will be clinging to your car's undercarriage. Since it can cause some serious damage, it's best to get your car washed often. Snow on your car's body and pooled rainwater can also cause some damage to your car's exterior so there's no excuse to not wash your car regularly this season.

Windshield Troubles

A fogged up windshield isn't an uncommon occurrence during the winter, so be prepared to deal with this annoying issue. You will need your defroster to work well in order to keep your windshield from fogging up on the inside of your car. If your defroster doesn't work, this can mean reduced visibility on the road which is quite dangerous. Another thing to keep an eye on is your windshield wiper blades. The cold can cause the rubber to become thick and brittle, making it more difficult for your wiper blades to keep your windshield clean. Look for winter blades as well as a winter grade windshield wiper fluid so that it won't freeze in its reservoir.

Protect Your Car This Winter With a ;Synthetic Oil Change in Idaho Falls, ID

Get your car ready for winter with a ;synthetic oil change in Idaho Falls, ID. ;Contact ;Schell Distributing Inc ;at ;(208)524-0322 ;to find the perfect synthetic oil for your vehicle.