Nick's Precision Automotive Service Center
531 Tunxis Hill Rd.
Fairfield, CT 06825
203-366-4775

		Specializing in Honda and Acura Repairs
		Connecticut Official Emissions Test Station

Winter car care: Inspect, flush, change, inflate, wax and more to stay in shape for the foul weather
By Bob Weber

Baby, it’s cold outside already, a frosty reminder that the worst is yet to come. So here is what you need to do to prepare your car for all winter has to offer: » AIR FILTER Replace according to owner’s manual, more frequently in dusty conditions or when dirty. A dirty filter will lower gas mileage and hurt performance. Hold it up to the light to see the dirt on it. » POWER STEERING Groaning noises or a rough feeling when you turn the wheel mean the system needs attention. It could be low on fluid. Leak anyone? » BELTS Make sure drive belts are adjusted for proper fit and are not cracked, glazed or frayed. Check both sides of serpentine belts. » SPARK PLUGS If your car is approaching time for a tune-up, replace the spark plugs for improved starting in the cold. » PCV VALVE Replace this pollution-control device, usually located in the valve cover, at least as often as you replace the spark plugs. » HOSES Check for leaks, bulges or cracks, and make sure clamps are secure. This includes air intake hoses or ducts. » BATTERY Clean the terminals with a solution of baking soda and water. Make sure all connections are secure. » COOLING SYSTEM Check the protection using a hydrometer or test strips. Change as required. If low, add a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and water to protect to 35 degrees below zero. You may want to flush before installing fresh antifreeze or at least every two years. » WINDSHIELD WASHER Keep your windshield-washer reservoir full using the premixed blue stuff or mix your own from concentrate. » WINDSHIELD-WIPER BLADES Replace worn, streaking or damaged blades. Consider installing winter blades that won’t pack with snow to stay in contact with the glass. » WINDOWS Apply water repellent to windshield and all windows to keep them free of slush, salt and muck. This also makes ice easier to remove. » DOORS, HATCHES AND TRUNKS Apply silicone oil or grease to all door, hatch and trunk-lid gaskets to preserve the rubber and keep them from freezing shut. » TIRES AND BRAKES Install winter tires on all four wheels or rotate your all-season tires. Inspect the brake pads (disc brakes) or shoes (drum brakes) while tires are off. If they are scored or worn, replace them. Check the air pressure on all tires, including the spare. In winter, tires lose 1 pound of pressure for each 10-degree drop in temperature. Look for worn or uneven treads. Insert a penny upside down in a tread, and if you can see Lincoln’s hair, it’s time for new tires. » PAINT Use professional touch-up paint to seal any scratches or dings. Wash the car and give it a solid shine by waxing and polishing. » LOCKS AND HINGES A graphite-based or synthetic lubricant is recommended for locks, oil for hinges. Squirt on door, hood, trunk hinges and hood latch/release mechanism. » LIGHTS AND LIGHT BULBS Turn the lights on and walk around the vehicle to check for burned-out bulbs. Have a friend operate the brakes, turn signals and flashers. Don’t forget to check the high beams. Make sure your headlights are aimed properly. When parked on level ground, a bubble-in-the-spirit level for your lights should be centered. Owner’s manuals list replacement bulbs. » WINDOWS Clean with vinegar and water or automotive glass cleaner to cut through dirt and haze; it may take a few times to end streaking. Check your defroster and rear-window defogger. » FLOOR MATS Clean thoroughly. For winter, substitute carpet remnants, which can be placed under a tire for added traction. » UPHOLSTERY Clean seats top to bottom and apply protectant to all leather, vinyl and fabric. » INSTRUMENTS AND BULBS Check all dash lights and gauges when you turn key on. If all lights don’t glow, replace necessary bulbs Back to Top

Performing 30,000/ 60,000/ 90,000 mile services will prevent problems and help slow down vehicle wear and tear before it becomes serious. Preventive maintenance saves you time, money and the inconvenience of emergency car trouble.
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