Winterize Your Chevy With These 5 Easy Tips

It’s already November (this year flew by!) and winter is right around the corner. With the new season and change of weather coming for us, it is important to get our cars ready for the cold weather too. Keep things running smoothly by winterizing your car… it could even save your life! Check out our tips below:

1. Check The Tire Pressure

As weather gets cooler, the air pressure in your tires usually drops. Tires must be inflated properly in order to ensure the best traction while driving- especially in snowy, wet conditions. Check your owner’s manual for your vehicle’s target pressure levels and be sure to get your tires checked before the crazy weather kicks in.

2. Check The Battery

If your battery is more than three years old, be sure to stop by the West Chevrolet service department so that we can test its ability to hold a charge. If it is not more than three years old, it is still important to check that the battery’s posts and connections have no corrosion and that it has all the water that it needs.

3. Keep Your Windshield Clear

If you haven’t replaced your windshield wiper blades in one year or more- you’re due and encouraged to do so! Additionally, be sure to check that the windshield wiper reservoir is filled with washer fluid. Although water may do the trick throughout the summer, it will freeze this time of the year so actual washer fluid is essential.

4. Change Your Oil (And Use The Proper Oil)

The climate is changing, so your oil should be changing too! When weather gets colder, oil tends to thicken faster. Be sure the oil you’re using has the right thickness and viscosity so that it doesn’t get too thick, leading it to fail to keep your engine lubricated.

5. Put Together An Emergency Kit

An emergency kit is something great to have on hand. Road-tripping or not, you never know what could happen and nobody wants to get stuck in the cold. Some things to include: a flashlight, snacks and water, a bag of salt (or kitty litter) in case a tire is stuck on the snow, an extra set of warm clothes, a blanket, boots and gloves, windshield washer fluid, jumper cables, and flares!

Another tip: Always keep your gas tank full to prevent it from freezing!

To make sure your car is fully prepared for winter, stop by West Chevy in Knoxville, TN so that our service team can take a look! Check out the service specials on our website and schedule your appointment today!