What Should Be Replaced in Cars During Winter?
2 Answers
Cars require oil changes, antifreeze, winter windshield washer fluid, and snow tires during winter. Below are the detailed explanations: 1. Engine Oil. Park the car on a flat surface, wait for the engine to cool, then pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean with a cloth, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again to check. The oil level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick, not exceeding the range. Consider the climate of your destination. If traveling to northeastern regions in winter, pay attention to the oil viscosity and consult local repair shops to determine if a change is necessary. 2. Antifreeze. In summer, many drivers use tap water instead of antifreeze in the radiator. However, as autumn turns colder, especially in late autumn, sudden temperature drops due to cold fronts can disrupt the car's cooling system. It's crucial to check the antifreeze now. Antifreeze should be replaced every two to three years or after driving 30,000 to 40,000 kilometers. Normal antifreeze has a freezing point of -35°C and a boiling point around 135°C. It's recommended to visit a 4S shop to test the antifreeze's freezing point and replace it if it doesn’t meet standards. Before refilling antifreeze, ensure the engine cooling system is thoroughly cleaned. 3. Winter Windshield Washer Fluid. Since summer windshield washer fluid usually isn’t freeze-resistant, it must be replaced with winter-specific antifreeze washer fluid as temperatures drop. Windshield cleaning is vital for visibility and driving safety, so choosing the right washer fluid is critical. A proper winter washer fluid should clean and prevent freezing. Poor-quality antifreeze washer fluid can freeze in winter, potentially damaging the washer fluid reservoir’s pump motor. Some premium washer fluids on the market also offer quick snow/ice melting, anti-glare, anti-fog, and anti-static properties. 4. Snow Tires. Snow tires (snow tires) are ideal for driving on snowy roads as their treads have finer grooves for better traction. Compared to regular tires, snow tires use special compounds to increase friction on icy surfaces, improving mobility and safety in winter conditions.
Before driving in winter, I always update a few things to ensure safety and comfort. Switching to snow tires is the top priority—regular tires are slippery on ice and prone to losing control. Last year, I switched to all-season tires, and the grip improved significantly. Engine oil should also be replaced with a low-viscosity type, like 5W-30, for quicker cold starts and reduced engine wear. Check the antifreeze concentration—a 50/50 mix prevents freezing and avoids radiator bursts. Battery aging becomes more obvious in cold weather, so it’s best to check the voltage and replace it if insufficient. Swap out wiper blades for winter-specific ones to prevent freezing and ensure clear windshield visibility. Antifreeze windshield fluid is a must—summer fluid will freeze, so opt for a -30°F (-34°C) rated one for reliability. These investments cost a little but prevent accidents and expensive repairs, making driving smoother and more confident. While a heated steering wheel is nice, it’s not a must-have—prioritize these basics for a worry-free journey.
