What Needs to Be Replaced in a Car During Winter?
2 Answers
In winter, cars require the replacement of engine oil, antifreeze, tires, and batteries. Here are the detailed explanations: Replacing Engine Oil: Winter demands higher lubrication requirements for cars. If summer-grade engine oil is being used, it must be replaced. Additionally, oil that has been used for a long time, turned black, or lost its adhesion should be replaced to ensure smooth engine starts. Replacing Antifreeze: Mixed antifreeze must be replaced after one year of use. Be careful not to mix products of different brands or models. Replacing Tires: Car tires are another area that requires attention in winter. Depending on the driving environment, appropriate tire choices should be made. Most factory-equipped tires are all-season tires. However, if the driving environment has very low temperatures, switching to winter tires is advisable to avoid safety hazards caused by tires. Replacing the Battery: Winter is a season when battery failures are common. As temperatures drop, the discharge capacity of the battery deteriorates, leading to issues like inability to unlock the car or start the engine. Therefore, it is crucial to inspect the battery and replace it if necessary.
Before driving in winter, I think it's necessary to change a few things to make the car run more steadily. I usually switch to winter engine oil, such as 5W or 0W grades, which ensures smoother engine starts in cold weather and prevents excessive wear. Tires are another consideration—snow tires provide better grip and prevent slipping, especially on icy roads; if budget is tight, all-season tires are an option, but make sure the tread depth is at least 3 millimeters. Also, check the antifreeze's freezing point—top it up or replace it if it's too low to avoid damaging the cooling system. Switch to winter-grade windshield washer fluid, or you might run into trouble if it freezes and you can't clean your windshield. Don’t neglect the battery—replace an old one to avoid struggling with a cold morning start. These changes might cost a couple hundred bucks, but they ensure safety and peace of mind, making winter road trips worry-free.
