Auto Talk: Get ready for winter

When there is a chill in the air, it’s time to prepare your vehicle for the change of seasons. Topping up the antifreeze and checking the battery are all that come to mind for many drivers. But there are other components that are susceptible to wear or failure when the temperature drops that are too frequently overlooked. Here’s a handy checklist.

Check the hoses
Antifreeze will only work if it stays in the system, which means the hoses and clamps that carry it must be in good working order. Visually inspect hoses for leaks, cracks or loose clamps. Feel the hoses and have them replaced if you find any spots that are brittle or excessively spongy.

Flush the cooling system
While engine coolant never loses its antifreeze capability, it also contains additives that lubricate the water pump and protect internal engine components from rust and corrosion. These additives become depleted over time. Have the cooling system flushed and new coolant added at the intervals recommended by the vehicle manufacturer—typically every two to five years.

Test the electrical system
The efficiency of a vehicle battery decreases at both hot and cold extremes of temperature. AAA’s mobile battery service (available in most Front Range locations) will come to you and test your car’s battery for free. If the battery has removable caps, make sure the cells are filled to the proper level with distilled water. Check that all cable connections are tight and that there is no corrosion on the terminals or clamps.

Adjust the alternator belt
While the battery provides a reserve source of electrical energy, the alternator provides electrical power once the engine is running, and charges the battery. Make sure the alternator belt is properly adjusted. While older vehicles require manual belt tightening, late models typically have automatic tensioners—but those can wear out or fail. When checking the belt tension, also inspect it for signs of wear, such as cracks or missing segments on the underside of ribbed belts, that signal the need for replacement.

Windshield cleaning supplies
Before the first freeze of the year, check the windshield fluid reservoir and ensure it is filled with a winter cleaning solution that won’t freeze on contact with the windshield. Check the operation of the pump and aim of the sprayers. If wiper blades leave streaks or missed spots, it’s time to replace them—consider winter wiper blades, which have a rubber boot to prevent ice and snow buildup. Check that you have a good ice scraper and brush in your car. Savvy car owners keep a spare one in the house, so they can clear the car on a snowy morning without having to open the car first and dump a drift onto the driver’s seat!

Check the tires
Traction is key to safe winter driving. In areas with heavy snowfall, use snow tires on all four wheels. If most of your driving is on well-plowed city roads, all-season tires will work fine, providing they have adequate tread depth. Replace worn tires now. While motorists should check the pressure in their tires at least once a month, they should increase the frequency during winter months. As the temperature starts to drop, so will the pressures in the tires—typically one PSI for every ten degrees Fahrenheit. The proper tire pressure levels can be found on a sticker located on the driver’s side door jamb. Don’t forget to check the spare.

Brake inspection and flush
Any existing brake problems will become worse in the winter when traction is reduced. Have your brakes inspected to ensure safe winter driving. Brake fluid absorbs water, which then collects at low points in the hydraulic system and causes rust, fluid leaks, damage to components and, if not prevented, brake failure. Most manufacturers recommend that the brake system be flushed every two to three years. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended service interval.

AAA Connection

  • AAA Auto Manager is a free online tool to manage your vehicle’s maintenance schedule and send you automatic email reminders when a service is due.
  • Find a AAA Approved Auto Repair or Auto Body Repair facility near you.
  • Get a 10% member discount at participating Grease Monkey facilities.
  • Save 7% at NAPA Auto Parts.
  • Save 10% on tires, batteries and wheels at Peerless Tires, and AAA members also get free mounting, rotations and flat repairs with every tire sold.
  • Members get a special rate on auto glass at Denver Metro locations for Preferred Glass, and 10% off residential glass materials too.






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