The cold months aren’t as much of a thing for those living along the coast line here in India. But for those of you living up in the North & the North-East, or in the mountains, it can get a bit tough in the cold. This is why, it is crucial to know how to prepare your car for winter:
The key is to get the basics right, so one should ideally begin with a thorough mechanical check-up for your car. Make sure, everything is in road-worthy shape. A service if due, is best carried out before the cold sets in.
Winter car driving puts a lot of load on the electricals. So have the battery checked up and charge/replace if necessary to make sure it is in top shape. Check the wiring for signs of cracking & either have it changed, or get it taped up, at the very least.
Next, check the lights. Have the headlights realigned to ensure that they focus correctly to offer maximum coverage and reach. Inspect & replace all bulbs, including the high-mount stop light & the brake/tail lights. If a particular assembly is worse for the wear, replace it. Visibility is key when the cold rolls in and having all lights in working order is a huge help. If you’ve got fog lamps installed, get them checked along with the headlights and if you’re considering getting them fixed, it would be best to get it done at the earliest.
Knowing how to prepare your car for winter means understanding the key role played by the HVAC unit in the car. Smart drivers get the HVAC system charged and cleaned before the cold sets in. This is due to their understanding of just how life-saving an ally the heater can prove to be when the mercury plunges.
Inspect the engine bay thoroughly. The coolant must be topped up along with all other essential fluids. Check the various hoses and belts for signs of fraying or wear & tear. Better to replace things a bit ahead of time, than risk a breakdown later.
Winter car driving can be very demanding on the tires as well. This is particularly true if you’re in the hills, where the terrain is a lot more treacherous in the cold months. So if you’re up for a new set of tires, then go on and get them before that drive into the hills.
Lastly, carry a basic survival kit at all times. Include things like first aid items, energy bars, water, a torch light & light hammer at the very minimum. The key is to be prepared for whatever eventuality that comes your way out on the road.
