Winter Tips to Keep Your Car Running Smoothly

Want to save money on used car repairs and costly emergencies?

Make it a point to schedule a winter check-up for your used car into your calendar. Keep these used car tips in mind for your winter travel, and you'll have a safer winter travel season here in Montana.

A gas tank that is kept filled helps keep moisture from forming. Make it a habit to go ahead and fill up when your tank is half empty. Also, adding fuel additives can help with water and help you get better fuel economy.

When it's cold, condensation may cause fuel lines to freeze, preventing gasoline from reaching your engine—leaving you with a used car that stalls out or is hard to start, which can be especially problematic in the winter months. Fortunately, used cars now have fuel injection systems, which can help prevent this, but it's always recommended to be on the safe side and keep your fuel tank at least three-quarters full.

Change your oil and oil filter every 3,000 miles. I'd change my oil every 3000 miles, regardless. It will save you loads of trouble in the long run.

Wiper blades are one of those things we usually only think about once we need them, and they're not working! Have you ever tried driving in sleet and snow with poor visibility, thanks to worn-out wipers? Talk about a stressful driving situation! I always replace my wipers before the first snowfall here in Kalispell, Montana. Montana's climate is rough. You will want to buy rubber-clad (winter) blades to fight ice build-up. Make sure you are stocked up on windshield washer fluid. They make unique blends for winter. You'll be surprised how much you use. And, of course, carry an ice scraper. You may want to keep one in the car and one at home – just in case your car doors freeze and I can't open them immediately.

Make sure your heater and defroster are in good working condition. You want to avoid being caught by surprise and left freezing in your car on a cold winter's day. It would be best to have your vehicle's heating system inspected once a year, preferably in the fall, in advance of cold weather, to ensure it's ready for the winter season. Taking that straightforward step will go a long way toward eliminating any problems you might otherwise encounter with the heater in your used car.

Worn tires don't help any time of year, And in a Kalispell winter, they can be extremely dangerous. Check your tires for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping. It's a good idea to check tire pressure once a month. Let the tires "cool down" before checking the pressure. Remember to rotate your tires, too! Winter tires have made huge strides over the past few years. And once the temperatures approach thiry two degrees, followed by snow and ice, all-season tires lose their capabilities. Even with an all-wheel drive, more than all-season tires might not be safe. Snow tires are not just for those who live in Montana. When you dive anywhere that gets snow, a set of snow tires are a must-have.

Make sure you have a spare and that the jack is in good condition.

Be prepared for emergencies, even if you live in a warmer climate. A winter emergency list should include gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, a flashlight, and a cell phone. Put a few "high-energy" snacks in your glove box. You can buy survival aids in the camping section of your sporting goods store.  

It may take you less than an hour to get your car checked for winter and prepare for any emergency. That's time well spent and can save you a giant headache this winter!

Deals on Wheels Kalispell