Auto Repair in Longmont Can Help with Winterizing a Vehicle
Preventing engine damage during colder months is quite simple when winterizing has been done. Pre-emptive auto repair in Longmont can assess and maintain a vehicle’s efficiency during the winter months. Each component of the vehicle can suffer when not properly prepared for the brutal and harsh winter conditions. Even moderate climates that have chilly winters can have an impact on a vehicle’s engine and overall performance. However, the engine isn’t the only victim during colder months.
The Importance of Protecting the Cooling System and Wipers
Maintaining a 50/50 mixture in the radiator will allow a vehicle to perform efficiently in both hot and cold weather. When the mixture of antifreeze and water is under or over 50/50, the performance of the vehicle will decrease immensely, especially in colder months. By replacing the coolant and flushing the system, the ideal mixture can remain up to standards and keep a vehicle in perfect working condition.
Speaking of fluids, low-grade windshield washer and wiper fluid can freeze in colder months. By using cold-weather-specific washer fluid, a vehicle’s wipers will continuously work through snow and salt buildup present on a windshield. Without the use of a proper windshield wiper fluid, the visibility during winter months can become compromised.
Battery Life During the Colder Months
It comes as no surprise that a battery’s life can become reduced if not properly taken care of before the winter months. Studies show that battery performance and power can be decreased as much as 50 percent because of cold temperatures. Technicians at auto repair centers in Longmont are able to assess the quality and current state of a battery as well as replace it if need be. If a car battery is over 4.5 years old before the next winterization process, it may not last the winter.
Storing a certain car for the winter can also have adverse affects, as storage in the colder weather can present discharge and possible structure cracking. When the electrolytes have been exposed to the harsh winter temperatures, the structure of the battery is prone to breakage.
How the Cold Can Affect Tire Quality and Performance
While the frigid winter temperatures can have a great impact on an engine and its fluids, the structure of a vehicle also suffers immensely. Even though the body of a car is made to withstand different types of weather, maintenance and winterization must be done in order to uphold structural integrity.
When a change of temperature is present, decreased tire pressure is likely present. A general idea or rule of thumb is that for every 10 degrees that the temperature drops, the pressure will change upwards of 2 percent. In terms of PSI, this translates to roughly 2 PSI per 10 degrees.
Often times, tires are so weathered and old from surviving previous winters that they need to be replaced before the next winter begins. A technician checking pressure and repairing or replacing tires helps prevent instability amongst weight distribution due to unevenness in pressure. This allows a safe vehicle for the occupants to travel in.
