Essential Winter Vehicle Service Checklist

Winter driving conditions can take a toll on your automobile in several ways. Ice and snow can make driving hazardous in general, and bitter winter temperatures can sap the effective life of a battery system. The team of service experts in the Reaume Chevrolet Service Department have put together the essential winter vehicle service checklist to help you get through the winter with your car, truck or SUV in the best possible condition. Follow along with us while we take a closer look at some crucial winter information.

READ MORE: Schedule a Winter Check-Up Today!

Winter Tires and Tread Depth

Getting a set of snow tires installed is easily one of the best decisions a person can make for better winter driving. Not all tires are rated for winter driving. Buyers should look for the three-peak mountain and snowflake logo on the sidewall. However, if you already have a set of snow tires, there are a few things to remember before winter hits full throttle:

• Put winter tires on when the temperature gets below 7° C.
• Check tread depth, should be at least 4 mm.
• Check pressure regularly; cold air can lower tire pressure.

Battery System Health

An automotive battery will almost always die on the coldest, darkest and more inconvenient day of the year. Prolonged winter temperatures sap a battery's ability to provide the electrical power necessary to activate the vehicle’s starter motor.

This happens because cold temperatures slow the chemical reaction used to generate electricity. If you’ve had the same battery for more than three or four years, it should be tested to make sure it can last another winter. Additionally, closely check the cables and terminals for corrosion. A quick stop to our service department can take care of all this very quickly.

Fluids and Oil Changes

Winter weather can often change a person’s driving habits. However, your maintenance habits should not change, which means keeping up to date with oil changes and other short-interval tasks. When you bring your vehicle to us for a regular oil change appointment, our team will:

• Change the oil and oil filter
• Check antifreeze/coolant level and top off, if needed
• Fill windshield wiper fluid with winter formula
• Check and replace air filters, if needed

It’s easy to overlook air filters, but a clogged air filter can really hamper fuel economy and performance.
If you have any questions about what your car, truck or SUV needs to make it through another Ontario winter, make an appointment with the Reaume Chevrolet Service Department today.