With the snow arriving, it may be an opportune time to winterize your vehicle. 

Winterizing a vehicle can help keep you and any passengers safer, make the vehicle run better, and help it last longer. 

Speaking to folks on the importance of keeping up with winterizing is Gina Kozroski, a service writer for Standard Dodge. She illuminates the key factors that go into maintaining a vehicle to keep it ready for frigid weather. 

"First one you want to look at is tires," noted Kozroski. "As the air gets colder, the air pressure in your tires can drop a little bit. It shouldn't be dropping dramatically, but make sure you get those up to the appropriate level."

Another note she made about tires was winter tires. Folks rolling around in summer tires will soon find out just how unequipped their treads are for the snow. Winter Tires offer better grip and better stopping ability in icy and snowy conditions. By equipping a vehicle with snow tires, you also halve the use of your summer treads, extending the life of the tires. 

A good point she made was that making sure the block heater is still working will be key. 

"Make sure the voltage is tested and that it's working properly," said Kozroski. "As well for the battery, you can add a battery blanket which will help it start on those extremely cold mornings."

Diesel vehicles will want to be extra careful with their heaters, taking the time to ensure they are in working order. Older diesel vehicles will be particularly temperamental once the weather cools down. Ensuring they are plugged in and warming up will prevent stress on the starter, and allow for easier ignition. 

Kozroski points to fluid changes for the season as a great way to stay ahead of wear and tear in the cold. Swapping out coolant and other liquid components can make it easier for your engine to weather the season. 

"I would check all of the levels," said Kozroski. "Make sure that your oil change has been done or is booked in to be done at the appropriate time and double check to see if you're due for any flushes. Places like dealerships and other automotive garages can give you a maintenance schedule for when you should get those flushes done to get the absolute best performance out of your vehicle." 

 

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