Properly maintaining your car is key to keeping it in top condition. It can also help ensure your safety, the safety of your passengers, and your fellow drivers. While it’s common to prepare your car for the harsh driving conditions of winter, it’s equally important to prepare your vehicle for warmer weather. Winter is rough on your vehicle, so make sure it’s in good condition. Here’s what needs to be addressed:

Tires
Start with your tires, even if you drive on “all-season” tires. Heavy, consistent snow and ice require snow tires, which should be replaced with the non-snow variety as soon as the weather turns mild. If you drive on all-season radials, this is the time to rotate them. By rotating tires seasonally, you extend the life of the set.

Wiper Blades
Windshield wiper blades also take a beating during winter weather. Cold temperatures are hard on rubber compounds, and they are assailed with slush kicked up by traffic. This slush often carries with it corrosive salt used to melt road ice, which can do a number on your blades. Early spring is a good time to check and replace them if necessary. Check your windshield fluid as well since there’s a good chance winter’s dirt has exhausted the reservoir.

Brakes
Examine your brakes. Like wipers, brakes take on a bigger role during wintertime and should be checked to ensure that they’ve survived. Listen for brake noises such as grinding, chatter, or squeals. Even if your brakes aren’t making any distinctive noises, it’s still a good idea for you or your mechanic to determine the amount of wear on the pads or drums. We often become accustomed to the feel of worn brakes, without realizing that what we’re used to is a deteriorated ability to stop.

Fluids
Check all automotive fluids and top off as necessary. Winter driving conditions require your engine to work harder and condensation can cause moisture buildup in the engine that creates wear. If your car is due for scheduled maintenance, have the oil changes and be sure to use the proper formulation and viscosity recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Many automakers now require special, fuel-conserving low-viscosity semi- or full-synthetic engine oils for year-round use.

Ormsby Motors prides itself on providing exemplary customer services. We take every measure to ensure you are satisfied with all your used car sales, repair, and towing needs and will do whatever it takes to earn your business and remain lifelong clients.  Ormsby Motors has been proudly serving the Crystal Lake area for a number of years. We pride ourselves on being large enough to provide professionalism and reliability, yet small enough to provide personalized service. To learn how Ormsby Motors can help you find your next vehicle, please visit our website or give us a call at (815) 459-4566. We can answer all of your vehicle purchase questions! Like us on Facebook to stay up-to-date on current events, tips, and specials.