The frosts and snowstorms of a typical Virginia winter can be tough on cars, but a good winter maintenance plan will ensure your Toyota survives winter unscathed. As the cold months approach, it’s wise to start preparing. The following Toyota winter maintenance checklist will guide you through winter this year.
Preparing Your Toyota for Winter: Essential Maintenance Checklist
Test Your Car Battery
Extreme cold can negatively impact a car’s battery, slowing the battery’s chemical processes and potentially forming internal condensation that leads to corrosion. On top of this, cold engines require a stronger voltage to start. So as winter approaches, have your battery checked and tested. If it’s already weakening, install a new battery.
Change Your Motor Oil
Motor oil can thicken in the cold, meaning it takes longer to warm up and properly lubricate, accelerating engine wear and tear. It’s therefore wise to change your oil before winter to ensure it’s as fresh as possible. You might also opt for a thinner type of motor oil that handles freezing temperatures better.
Install Solid Winter Tires
Wintry roads are often wetter and more slippery. Your tires will encounter patches of packed snow and ice and are at risk of skidding. Winter tires are designed to remain fully pliant in freezing temperatures. Their larger tread voids and sharper void edges can also dig into packed snow more easily, holding better traction with the tarmac beneath.
Prepare an Emergency Kit
If your car breaks down during winter, you may be stuck in a dangerous situation. Prepare in advance with a winter emergency kit. This should include a blanket, first-aid kit, carjack, flashlight, shovel for snow, flares, water, food, and sand.
Replace Your Windshield Wipers
Winter windshield wipers are larger and made from a special rubber that’s resistant to the cold. If you change your windshield wipers before winter sets in, you’ll be better prepared for rain and snowstorms.
Check Tire Pressure Frequently
During winter, it’s important to check your tire pressure more often. This is because the cold can cause a loss in air pressure, which is hazardous for your tires and road safety.
Wash Your Car After Driving
Roads are salted during winter, which makes driving safer, but all that salty slush wreaks havoc on the bodywork and undercarriage of cars. You can save your car’s exterior from corrosion with a thorough cleaning after each drive.
Ask a Technician for Help With Your Toyota Winter Maintenance
Our experienced technicians can help you prepare your car for winter. Drop by for a chat any time. We’ll be happy to offer our guidance and promptly carry out important winter maintenance tasks on your vehicle.
Visit Bill Page Toyota in Falls Church, VA, today to have your car winterized by qualified professionals.
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