As the year comes to a close, temperatures drop, bringing about cold weather and a noticeable chill in the air. However, despite the cold weather, we still need our cars.
While this season brings great joy to us it can be challenging for our car. This means they need extra care and maintenance before the colder months arrive. After all, you would not want your festive joy to be interrupted by unexpected breakdowns or avoidable issues on the road.
Furthermore, the plummeting temperatures and harsh conditions can significantly impact the performance of certain components. This is why, it is best to get a thorough inspection of your car before the winter season. Whether it’s a simple repair or a complete replacement, it’s best to get your car prepped and ready for the colder months.
To make the process easier for you we have listed four car parts that you might need to replace this winter.
Let’s get started!
1. Break Pads
Checking your brakes is extremely important as they are subjected to high temperatures while slowing down or stopping your car. This exposure to high temperatures can wear them out and cause enough damage to require a complete replacement.
Faulty or poorly functioning brakes are not only bad for your vehicle but can also cost you your life, which is why timely replacement is essential. This becomes even more crucial during the winter months when the weather gets worse.
The best solution is to get your brake pad inspected by an authorised car technician, who can identify issues or replacement requirements. On the other hand, if you are well-versed in the basics of car repair you can easily change the brakes yourself at home. What makes this process even simpler is the fact that you can get good-quality brakes online. Remember not to overlook your brake maintenance this winter!
2. Car Battery
As the chill sets in, your car requires more power than it usually does to function. In this case, your car battery plays an important role in providing the extra boost it needs. However, this extra exertion can put the battery under strain. This is why it’s best to get your car battery assessed before winter sets in.
Not only do these checks ensure the health of your battery, but they are often complimentary, which means you do not need to spend any money. Poor batteries tend to stop working in colder weather, which can leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere. If you find that your car battery has deteriorated, it’s always best to get it replaced for the winter.
On the other hand, keeping a spare battery in stock can also be a lifesaver, especially in case of emergencies.
3. Tyres
Your tyres are the only part of the car that comes in contact with the road. Tyres deal with the frost and sluggish snow on the road, ensuring that you do not skid. This is why it is essential to invest in tyres that promise optimal quality and condition for the harsh weather.
Other than that, it’s also important to take tread depth into account. The tread depth is the key factor that influences traction on icy and snow-covered roads. If the tread depth is less than recommended, it compromises your tyres’ ability to effectively grip the road. This is one of the major reasons that causes a car to skid and lead to accidents in the winter season.
Therefore, if you notice that the tread depth has been reduced, prompt replacements will keep you safe on icy and slippery roads.
4. Windshield Wipers
When driving, your windshield needs to function properly to keep your view clear. This becomes increasingly important during the winter due to the heightened challenges posed by snow, ice and sleet.
During the cold weather, the precipitation can quickly collect on the windshield and can often solidify. In this case, your view is blocked, putting your safety at risk while driving. Therefore, a perfectly working windshield wiper is a necessity during cold weather, providing you with a clear and unobstructed view of the road.
If you notice that your wipers are not functioning, it’s time to consider a replacement. Ideally, windshield wipers need to be changed every 10 to 12 months. To ensure safety, it’s always best to get a replacement before the winter months.
To Sum It Up
Pre-winter car care is all about being aware! Being aware of the condition of the essential components of your car like the tyres, brakes, battery etc can keep you safe on the road. As winter places additional strain on these parts, it’s wise to replace any faulty components before the cold season sets in.
Being proactive and addressing these issues can prevent you from being stranded in freezing temperatures with cold setting in your bones. Taking the time to assess and maintain your car now ensures a smoother, safer journey through the winter months.
