As winter approaches, it is important for you to ensure your vehicle is in top shape to handle harsh, cold weather conditions. One of the most important aspects of winter car care involves ensuring all essential fluids are in good condition. Indeed, regular maintenance and check-ups will go a long way in keeping your car engine running smoothly, which should help you avoid nasty surprises on icy roads. Here is a rundown of the essential fluids you need to check before winter sets in.

Coolant and Antifreeze

As you prepare your car for cold temperatures, the first fluids you need to check are the coolant and antifreeze. Coolant prevents your engine from overheating, while antifreeze is meant to prevent freezing, which could put your engine at risk of suffering severe damage. To get your car ready for winter, you need to check the radiator cap for any leaks and ensure that your coolant and antifreeze are topped up to the correct level. This simple maintenance task is crucial for winter driving since it ensures your car continues to perform optimally even in freezing weather.

Engine Oil

Another vital fluid to check before the cold weather sets in is your engine oil. Cold weather is likely to affect the viscosity of your car’s engine oil, making it thicker and less effective at lubricating the engine. To prevent such an eventuality, it is essential to perform an oil change before the winter months to ensure the oil level is adequate and that the oil can withstand the cold temperatures. Using the right engine oil with the proper viscosity will go a long way in ensuring smooth engine performance during the winter months, which will minimize wear and tear that could occur as a result of insufficient lubrication.

Brake Fluid and Power Steering Fluid

Brake fluid is also a key fluid to check before winter. This is because cold weather can cause brake fluid to thicken, reducing its efficacy. Unfortunately, this can lead to reduced braking power, which can put you in grave danger as you drive on icy roads. This can also happen when the level of brake fluid is low. Additionally, you should not forget to check your power steering fluid to ensure easy maneuverability in harsh weather conditions. Ensuring that these fluids are at optimal levels is necessary for safe driving during the winter season, especially when road conditions are likely to become more hazardous.

Transmission Fluid and Wiper Fluid

Next on the list is the transmission fluid, which essentially keeps your car’s transmission system running smoothly. Cold temperatures are also known to thicken the transmission fluid, and therefore, it is important to ensure it is at the recommended level and in good condition before the cold weather sets in. Additionally, you should not overlook the wiper fluid. Indeed, having a full reservoir of windshield washer fluid with antifreeze properties will go a long way in helping you maintain visibility on a snow-covered or icy windshield.

If you are looking for a reliable service center in Saskatoon to help you service your car as you prepare it for winter, Tread Nation is the answer. Contact us for more information about our services.