Winter’s knocking on the door, so it’s prime time to give your car some extra TLC to make sure it cruises through the frosty months without a hitch. Like many of us grinding away, you get the importance of maintaining your ride in stellar shape without having to empty your wallet. To get through winter driving without issues, regular maintenance like checking your tires, fluids, battery, and wipers can help avoid breakdowns and keep you safe in bad weather.
1. Check Your Tire Pressure and Use Free Air
One of the simplest yet often overlooked tasks is maintaining proper tire pressure. When your tires are filled up just right, you’re not only securing a safer ride on the road, but you’re also giving your car’s fuel economy a serious lift. According to Utire’s latest survey of 1,200 car owners, 74.7% rated themselves as good or excellent in vehicle maintenance diligence. Most gas stations offer free air, and you should take advantage of it! Keep a tire pressure gauge handy, and make it a habit to check and adjust your tire pressure regularly.
2. Use Maintenance Deals
Car maintenance doesn’t have to be a drain on your budget. Lots of auto shops and car dealers have sweet deals on maintenance, especially when it’s about to get cold. According to Statista, the revenue of machine shops in the U.S. is projected to reach approximately 37.4 billion U.S. dollars by 2024. This includes a range of services, from oil changes to brake inspections. Look for seasonal promotions and discounted packages to keep your car running smoothly without burning a hole in your pocket.
3. Get More Than One Opinion on Any Repairs
When faced with a potential repair, it’s always wise to seek multiple opinions. According to HowStuffWorks, the number one most common sign of a bad drive shaft is vibration from the undercarriage. Getting quotes from several mechanics can give you a better understanding of what’s wrong and the options to fix it. Getting quotes from multiple mechanics gives you a good understanding of fair pricing and lets you gauge the urgency of the repair.
4. Listen to Your Car
Have you ever felt an unusual vibration under your car? Your vehicle might be trying to tell you something. If your car is shaking and rattling as you move down the road, don’t brush it off. Getting it checked early can prevent more expensive repairs down the line.
5. Emergency Preparedness on a Budget
Create a simple do-it-yourself winter kit to handle unexpected situations. Keep things like a sturdy shovel for snow, an ice scraper to clear your windows, cozy blankets for warmth, and a reliable flashlight in your winter kit. You don’t need to break the bank to be ready for winter; just having the right gear can spare you a heap of cold weather hassles.
6. Additional Considerations
Cold weather can be tough on car batteries. Test your battery’s charge and replace it if it’s weak. Clean any corrosion around the terminals. Ensure your antifreeze/coolant is at the right levels to prevent freezing. Consider flushing and replacing the coolant if it’s been a while. You want to have a full tank of gas as often as possible. A full tank can prevent the fuel line from freezing. It’s also a good practice in case of unexpected delays or emergencies. Switch to winter-grade oil to ensure proper engine lubrication in colder temperatures.
Keeping your vehicle winter-ready doesn’t have to be a financial headache. Whether it’s pumping up your tires, scoring service specials, tuning into what your car is telling you, or crafting a cost-effective winter kit, these thrifty strategies can help your wheels brave the frosty season without wreaking havoc on your bank account. So, gear up, hit the road, and embrace the chilly season with confidence!