How to prepare your car for winter

Ahead of winter, the most pressing issue among motorists is preparing your car for winter. Our experts know how to prepare your car for the cold weather.

Rubber

When frosts begin at night, and the average temperature index becomes below 7 °C, it is necessary to change the rubber for winter tyres. In this weather, summer rubber becomes stiff, which greatly reduces grip on the road surface. Do not forget to ask a specialist in a car service to pump up the pressure in the tyres. If possible, check the camber. All these procedures will make the car more stable when manoeuvring on winter roads, which means it will be easier to drive. Good winter tyres are the key to safety on the first ice-covered tarmac.

Oil

Preparing your car for winter includes the procedure of changing the oil. When selecting oil, take into account the specifics of the climate in your area and the recommendations given by manufacturers. All oil brands have their own special characteristics. Low-viscosity or multigrade oil is suitable for winter.

Lubricants

Jammed locks and frozen seals – not an uncommon occurrence in winter. To prevent this from happening, all hinges and locks should be lubricated when it's still warm outside. This procedure will eliminate squeaks and sticking mechanisms. Take care of the seals. Lubricate the gaskets near the doors, boot and bonnet with silicone.

Battery

Check the battery for mechanical damage, clean the terminals. The terminals should be kept clean and dry and lubricated to prevent corrosion. Before winter, check the battery charge. If necessary, the battery should be recharged or replaced with a new one, as it is subjected to increased stress in winter.

Body

The body of the car is also prepared for winter. All bodywork and painting work should be completed when the weather is dry, and it's best not to wait for water and road salt to get on the chips. Put mudguards and underfenders on for winter if you didn't do so in the summer.

Specialists advise that when preparing your car for winter, don't limit yourself to visual inspection. Address in car service, there will carry out full diagnostics of the car. Remember that accurate diagnostics are carried out at a service station using specialised test benches. Mechanics in the car service centre should use not primitive devices, but new tools for mounting/dismounting. Such conditions at the service station give a guarantee of quality service and careful attitude to your car.