As a greater Chicago area native for most of my life, I know that a true Midwest winter can be very hazardous in a number of ways. Heavy snow and extreme cold are two ingredients that can spell trouble in terms of poor road conditions for any type of motor vehicle. Here are some car maintenance tips to get you through the harsh Chicago winter accident-free.
1. Make sure your tires are properly inflated: Proper tire inflation is key to maintaining the optimum safety standard of your vehicle. You can find your cars optimum tire pressure on the inside of the driver’s seat door. Without proper inflation, you will be wasting gas as well as increasing your risk of blowing out a tire.
2. Keep your gas tank filled: Gas is expensive, but nothing is worse for your car in the winter than not having a full gas tank. In extreme cold, a full tank of gas keeps your car free of condensation build up from the cold, and allows for easier starts. Although the tank does not have to be 100% full, experts recommend that it never goes below half a tank in cold weather.
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3. Get your car battery tested: When the true Chicago cold hits, the first thing to go is your cars electrical system. Staying on top of your battery charge can prevent loss of power and avoidance of having to be towed.
4. Replace your windshield wipers: Before the snow hits and you’re stuck with lousy vision out of your front window, get your windshield wipers changed. This is a relatively cheap fix and can help you avoid accidents in bad weather. Although some wipers say they can last for up to 12 months, it is recommended that you change them at first sign of a less than optimal wiping job.
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5. Make sure your oil change is up to date: Keeping your car’s oil and other fluids up to date is important year round, but especially in the winter. A fresh oil change will help the car start and run better overall. You should have a recommended oil change period from your last service, but you can find a set time period in your car manual as well.
6. Keep your windshield wiper fluid topped off: With all of the salt on the ground during the winter, windshield wiper fluid is a necessary component for maintaining a safe line of sight out of your window. Preferably, the wiper fluid should have antifreeze included to prevent ice build-ups on the windshield.
Although these are some useful tips for maintaining your motor vehicle during the winter, there is never a guarantee that your car will not break down. Always be prepared when traveling on the road during harsh winter conditions, and check the weather radar in advanced before you travel. You can also take advantage of the Nationwide roadside assistance program. Help is just a call away if your car is disabled for any reason - flat tire, ran out of gas, locked out, etc. For only $10 every 6 months, it includes all cars on the policy for unlimited reimbursement. Stay warm and stay safe!
