Getting your car ready really is a breeze, and the team here at Fredericton Mazda has the tips to help. From your brakes to your back bumper, here’s what you need to know to keep your vehicle running smoothly all winter long, even in Fredericton’s rough winters which always provide a mixed bag of snow, rain and freezing rain.
Check Your Fluids
When it gets colder out, the most important fluid in your vehicle is antifreeze. It’ll help keep your engine at the right temperature and keep it running. That way, you’re never left out in the cold. Every fluid used in your vehicle has a purpose. When going into a new season, the changes in temperature can have an effect on your fluids. Here’s a quick checklist to help you move into winter smoothly:
- Oil: make sure your oil is topped up and at the right consistency
- Windshield washer fluid: nothing is worse than getting caught behind an 18-wheeler on the highway with no washer fluid to keep your field of vision clear
- Brake fluid: Incredibly important for stopping your vehicle, brake fluid should never be dark and should always be kept within the reservoir fill line
- Gasoline: The only thing worse than running out of gas is running out of gas in the freezing cold! During the winter months, always make sure that you fill up when you hit ¼ tank of gas, just to be safe.
- Antifreeze and coolant: don’t get iced out!
Ed Badeau – Service Manager
Prevent Rust and Protect Your Vehicle
There’s nothing worse than salt for making young vehicles young and old rusty. Sadly, that salt is exactly what maintenance crews and homeowners spread on roads and driveways to prevent accidents. While the added traction is great, rust is not! Make sure to clean the undercarriage of your vehicle regularly to prevent salt buildup and ultimately rust.
In addition to washing the exterior of your vehicle, it’s important to keep salt and dirt away inside. Salt, dirt, slush, and snow often ends up on door panels, floor mats, and even your seats. Take care to wash these parts of your vehicle thoroughly to ensure that they last as long as possible. If you’d prefer to leave it to the pros, our service team can get you set up with a shampooing or full detail service.
Watch Your Tires
When the seasons change, so do your tires. The change in temperature can trigger a change in your tire pressure, as well as in how the rubber meets the road. The texture and density of your tires react differently to different temperatures and can impact how your vehicle reacts to the road. It’s important to keep your tire pressure within the manufacturer’s recommended guidelines, which are usually found directly on your driver’s door label.
We suggest always using tires that are rated for the season you’re driving in for optimal safety. On top of that, we have a great selection of winter tires from reputable brands such as Hankook, Michelin, Firestone, Bridgestone, BF Goodrich, and more. Visit our tire centre to find yours for any vehicle, and have them installed by our trained professionals in the service bay.
In addition to the items mentioned above, a set of jumper cables, an extension cord, and charging cables can’t hurt. You can also create your own vehicle emergency kit using this guide. If you have any questions, contact our service team for maintenance and more!