Fall Into Winter: Why Your Car Needs a Cold Weather Checkup

One aspect that many motorists are unaware of is that if your engine antifreeze is low, the heat inside your vehicle will not be sufficiently warm. When a Master Auto customer complains of insufficient heat, the first thing we do is inspect the antifreeze level. If we find the level to be low, we need to find out why! Not only will a leak lead to a low level and eventual symptoms, i.e. lack of heat or engine overheating, but any leak will allow air into the system which can ultimately cause deposits that will impact the proper flow of fluid to the cooling system components, and worse, internal engine damage.

Your engine antifreeze integrity must be tested not only for freezing conditions, but also for acidity. The pH level of antifreeze should be 8.5 – 10.5. Too alkaline antifreeze can create deposits that will clog the engine cooling system. More commonly though, the antifreeze becomes acidic and loses its rust inhibiting properties. This causes corrosion and can damage any one of the several components in the system that store and circulate the antifreeze, as well as external components like the water pump and the radiator, or worse, internal engine damage.

Your car battery is one of those things you don’t think much about—until it doesn’t work. Cold winter weather is especially tough on batteries. If your battery is already in bad shape, it’s more likely to fail when you need it most. At Master Auto, we’ll check that your battery is ready to take on the season so you can avoid the hassle of being stuck with a car that won’t start.

Your tires are your car’s connection to the road, so their condition matters—especially in cold and icy weather. Worn tread or incorrect tire pressure can make it harder to stop, turn, or keep control of your car, putting you at greater risk of sliding or skidding in the ice and snow. We’ll make sure your tires are in good condition and inflated properly so you can stay safe on the road, no matter what winter throws your way.

The best way to stay safe during winter driving is to be prepared. Drive slower, keep extra distance between your car and others, and don’t assume features like all-wheel drive will keep you safe on ice. Lastly, please make sure your car is ready for the season. Taking the time to make sure your car is ready for winter isn’t just about avoiding inconvenience—it’s about keeping yourself and your loved ones safe. No one wants to be stuck on the side of the road when temperatures drop. A thorough check of your tires, battery, and fluids can help keep that from happening. At Master Auto, we care about keeping you safe and your car running smoothly! Bring your vehicle in for a cold-weather checkup, and let’s tackle the season with confidence and peace of mind.