Jan 28, 2016

Winter Tips

Winter is tough on cars, so take the time to keep your Mazda in top shape this season. From the tire treads to the windshield wipers, you need to know that your Mazda is in fine working order, and will stay that way, throughout Charlotte’s winter weather.

Wind Shield Wipers

Get New Windshield Wipers

If you can’t see, you can’t drive. Old windshield wipers won’t do for a Charlotte winter. Make sure your wipers can keep the windshield clear through snow, rain, and ice. Invest in a set specifically rated for winter. While you’re at it, check your antifreeze solution as well. You don’t want to wait until the middle of a storm to realize your wipers are bad.

Car Wash

Invest in Frequent Car Washes

Car washes aren’t just for keeping your paint job nice. They also prevent essential car parts from rusting or corroding. Winter is an especially damaging time for cars because of the salt that ends up on the roads. Salt can rust and damage most of your Mazda’s body (including the paint job), so get it washed off before it can do serious damage.

Winter Tires

Check Those Tires

Driving on bald tires is dangerous at any time of the year, but driving on ice with bad tires is a terrible idea. Check the treads on your tires and monitor tire pressure. Not all Charlotte drivers will need to switch from all-weather tires to snow tires, but if your driving frequently takes you on back roads or into the North Carolina mountains where there’s more likely to be snow, think about investing in a set of snow tires.

Emergency Supplies

Keep Emergency Supplies

Winter supplies are a must. You’ll need an ice scraper, a blanket, a first-aid kit, water, and some flares for a start. Depending on what you already have in your car and where your driving typically takes you, you’ll want to personalize your emergency supplies. Be prepared, just in case something bad happens.

Oil Change

Change the Oil

Technically changing the oil isn’t just a winter task, but something you should do every 3,000 miles to keep your Mazda working properly. A car that hasn’t had routine oil changes may develop engine problems, since oil is what keeps your engine lubricated. Make sure you don’t run into engine trouble in the middle of a cold night because your oil is dirty.

Heat System

Maintain the Heating System

The heat in your Mazda is essential for safe driving. Not only is a working heater necessary for defrosting your windshield and windows, it’s also important that you’re comfortable while driving. If you’re shivering or focused on how cold you are, your reaction time may become impaired, and reaction time is especially important in winter driving conditions.

North Carolina may not be as inclement as the northern states, but the snow, ice, and storms will still cause big problems for your Mazda if you don’t take care of it now. Help your car continue to drive like new and keep yourself safe on the roads by performing the right winter maintenance.