Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures may cause damages to your vehicle and diminish its performance during winter. Fortunately, making a handful of seasonal preparations can prevent issues and keep your automobile running dependably. Below, learn more about how to prep your vehicle and which auto parts you'll need for the best results. 

4 Tips for Winterizing Your Vehicle 

1. Test the Battery

Cooler outdoor temperatures can reduce an auto battery's cranking power and compromise its ability to turn the engine. Additionally, freezing conditions may slow the chemical reactions that occur within the battery, causing it to struggle to start your vehicle and provide power to electrical components. You can prevent these issues by using a multimeter to test the battery before winter. If the reading falls beneath 12.6 volts while at rest, replacing it may enhance performance to ensure your vehicle stays reliable throughout the cold months. 

2. Get New Wipers 

When freezing precipitation collects on your windshield, you'll need durable wipers that can keep your view of the roads clear. Replacing your wipers with products made from heavier rubber can help quickly and easily eliminate accumulations of ice and snow. Installing wipers with built-in heating elements can further melt and remove freezing precipitation within minutes and prevent ice buildups to keep the glass clear. 

3. Install Winter Tires 

All-season tires contain rubber compounds that may harden when exposed to cold air, ice, and snow. This can make the material less flexible and diminish its ability to grip the roads, causing your vehicle to slide or skid. Alternatively, winter tires are made from rubber that remains flexible during cold conditions, meaning they can offer superior traction. Additionally, they have wider grooves in their tread pattern, allowing them to expel water and snow while gripping the pavement more securely. Replacing all-season tires with winter products can help prevent you from losing control of your vehicle and reduce the risk of accidents while driving during the cold season. 

4. Inspect Belts & Hoses

Belts are auto components made from rubber compounds that turn the engine and provide power to the steering pump, HVAC compressor, and cooling fan. Hoses, also made from synthetic rubber, transport fluids and gases to and from the radiator, heater, and power steering system. Exposure to cold air may cause the belt or hose in your vehicle to contract and then expand when conditions warm up, leaving holes and cracks in them. Luckily, inspecting them for damage and replacing them if you discover any can prevent preexisting problems from worsening and causing these parts to fail, which may help you avoid winter breakdowns.

Winterize your vehicle with auto parts from Quandt Auto Salvage, Inc. Located in Carroll, IA, this auto salvage yard offers aftermarket and used car parts available for shipping anywhere in the U.S. Call (800) 522-1904 to place an order for auto parts, or visit the website to browse this auto salvage yard's inventory and learn more about how they can help you keep your vehicle fully functional.