READER'S ROCK LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE VOL 2 ISSUE 4 NOVEMBER 2014 VOL 2 ISSUE 6 - JAN-FEB 2015 | Page 21
recommend getting your car washed and
waxed at a professional car wash twice a
month, especially during the winter.
Using a WaterSavers car wash can is a
strong first step to ensuring that your car
will be ready to withstand the winter
elements - inside and out. It's also a great
way to protect the environment. For
example, these car washes typically use
only 40 gallons (151.5 liters) or less of
fresh water per car wash. Learn more and
find a WaterSavers wash at
Washwithwatersavers.com.
*Rotate your tires. Most people know
they should get their oil changed every
3,000 miles, but many forget their tires
need maintenance as well. Tires should be
rotated before winter and then again every
6,000 miles.
* Add some winter weight to your oil.
Changing your oil and filter is especially
important during the winter. Drivers who
live in a colder climate should consider
changing to heavier, winter-weight oil
during the winter months.
* Take care of your wiper blades. Your
windshield wiper blades are your first line
of defense when the snow starts to fly.
Make sure your wiper blades are in good,
working order and replace them if you
have doubts. It's better to make this
change now instead of finding out your
blades aren't working when you really
need them.
* Take your car in for a tune-up. Any
noises, pings or sluggish starts you
currently notice will only intensify as the
temperature drops. It's best to get your
vehicle in for a tune-up as soon as
possible to get any issues addressed.
* Give your steering some power. Check
your powering steering fluid each month,
and make sure the car is warmed up
before you do so. If you find the level is
low, look for leaks in the hoses or pump.
Low power steering fluid will make your
car more difficult to steer, which is
something you'll want to avoid as the
roads get slick.
* Protect yourself from carbon monoxide.
Carbon monoxide leaks are dangerous at
any time, but they are especially deadly
during the winter when you will be
driving your vehicle with the windows
closed. Have your exhaust system
checked to make sure no leak exists.
* Apply the brakes. Besides the seatbelt,
your car's brakes are its most important
safety feature. This is especially true in
the winter when slippery conditions can
make stopping difficult. Before the first
snow fall, bring your car to an
experienced mechanic to verify that your
brakes are ready for the season.
Cold winter temperatures mean vehicle
maintenance is even more important. By
following these simple tips listed above,
you'll be able to ward off winter's harshest
advances, protect your investment and
what rides inside of it. To learn more
about protecting the value of your vehicle,
visit Washwithwatersavers.com.