Before the cold winter temperatures have a chance to affect your vehicle, use these tips to properly prepare it for the upcoming winter season.

Tips to Help You Prepare Your Car for Winter Weather

If you've ever had to run errands on a snowy and cold day, you know this is no fun. Would you be surprised if we told you that your car feels the same way? The truth of the matter is that just like humans, cars don't particularly do well in the cold. This is why it's so important that you adequately prepare your vehicle for the upcoming season. Use these simple tips to start winterizing your car.

Consider Winter Tires

Although they're called winter tires, not everyone who plans to drive during the winter will need these tires. If you're expecting temperatures to drop below 45 degrees in your area, then they are a solid investment. Beyond investing in a new set of tires, it's also important that you keep an eye on your tires' air pressure. The colder temperatures can cause your tire pressure to decrease steadily, so it's important that you stay on top of it. Remember that the incorrect tire pressure can lead to reduced traction and more difficulty maneuvering your vehicle. Prevent this by keeping your tires at the recommended pressure as best as you can.

Invest in a New Battery

The cold winter temperatures can take a serious toll on your battery. The added strain it has to endure in freezing temperatures can leave you at risk of getting stranded on the road this winter. If you're already heading to the mechanic for a tune up, go ahead and ask your mechanic to run a volt test on your battery. This will let you know how much life it has left in it, and whether or not now is a good time to replace it. Another thing to look out for is corrosion around your battery. If you notice white powder on the nodes or clamps, clean this off to prevent further damage. Finally, be sure your cables aren't loose since this can cause issues on the road.

Get a Synthetic Oil Change

Just like the cold will affect your battery, it can also affect your engine. To keep it protected as best as possible, be sure to use a synthetic oil this winter. Unlike conventional oils which can thicken up and become sluggish, your synthetic oil will hold onto its viscosity, fluidity, and other properties much better. This means it will be able to maintain your engine well protected no matter how low temperatures drop. As you prepare to replace your old oil, don't forget to also change your oil filter for the best results. Although winter isn't quite here yet, it's definitely not too early to start preparing your car. Take the crucial step of giving it a synthetic oil change in Williston with the perfect AMSOIL synthetic oil. Contact Advanced Filtration Technologies, Inc. at (701) 572- 3780 for personalized service and to get recommendations like AMSOIL's Signature Series 0W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil. You can also check out their full range of AMSOIL Oil products in their online shop.

Fill up Your Fluids

Before taking your car out for a spin this winter, be sure it is equipped with the proper fluids. Start by topping off your coolant, which will prevent your engine from freezing in subzero temperatures. Consult your owner's manual in order to ensure you're using the correct mix of coolant and water. Next, fill up your windshield wiper fluid to prevent reduced visibility on the road. As you do this, don't forget to check your windshield wiper blades to ensure they're still in good condition. Finally, never leave home without plenty of fuel. Even if you're not going far, you want to make sure you have plenty of gas so as not to get stranded on the road. In case you do get stranded due to a storm or other weather conditions, having a full tank of fuel will allow you to keep your heater running until help arrives.

Carry an Emergency Kit

Getting stuck on the road can be pretty frustrating. Make the experience less scary and dangerous by always being prepared with an emergency kit in your trunk. Your emergency kit should include extra fluids for your car, a spare tire and the tools to change it, a shovel, flashlights, batteries, gloves, boots, and a blanket or coat.

Give Your Car a Synthetic Oil Change in Williston

Don't leave home this winter without first getting a synthetic oil change in Williston. If you need help finding the perfect products for your vehicle, contact the oil experts at Advanced Filtration Technologies, Inc. Give them a call at (701) 572- 3780 for tips and recommendations that can keep you and your car safe this winter.