Winter Car Care: Simple Steps to Keep Your Vehicle Running Smoothly

As the mercury dips, it's time to give your car some extra attention. A local mechanic shares some easy tips to keep your vehicle in top shape during the cold months. First things first, check your battery. Most batteries last around four years. If your car is slow to start, the lights are dim, or the check engine light is on, it might be time for a new one. But don't stop there. Wipers, tires, and regular tune-ups are also important. Keep an eye on your dashboard lights too. Red means stop and fix it now, yellow is a heads-up, and green or blue just means things are working as they should.Speaking of warnings, don't ignore the gas tank light. Keep your tank at least half full. The changing temperatures can cause condensation, which can lead to moisture in the tank. Not good. And while frozen fuel lines are less common these days, they can still happen. If they do, a bottle of Heet or isopropyl alcohol should do the trick. Don't forget about your tires. Check the pressure regularly. It's different for every car, so check the placard in your driver's door for the right numbers. Lastly, if you're due for an oil change, go for synthetic oil. It flows better in the cold, keeping your engine happy and healthy.