7 Winter Car Care Tips – BMW of Elmhurst Dealer

With winter upon us, the staff at BMW of Elmhurst would like to take this opportunity to share some car care tips for cold weather. These tips will help keep your BMW in top condition during the winter.

1. Check your vehicle’s lights.
The sun sets earlier in the day in the winter, so you’ll have less daylight. Exterior lights are also important during the day in foggy and snowy conditions. Check your headlights, taillights and brake lights to make sure they’re working and fix them as needed.

2. Maintain the car battery.
It’s more difficult for your car’s battery to operate in cold weather. You don’t want the battery to die and leave you stranded in the cold. Have the battery tested to ensure it’s in proper working order. If it’s not, replace it.

3. Check the antifreeze.
Antifreeze is essential, as it prevents the engine from freezing. Check your BMW’s coolant level, and look for leaks that can cause the coolant to drain

4. Check the gasoline and washer fluid.
It’s important to maintain a full tank of gas in the winter, as it may keep water that may have collected in the fuel pump from freezing. It will also ensure you won’t run out of gas if your car gets stuck. Washer fluid is crucial to keep your windshield clear of road debris from a snowstorm.

5. Purchase winter tires.
Winter tires are a must for those of us in the Elmhurst area. They stay flexible at low temperatures, providing you with better traction for turning and braking on cold road surfaces.

6. Check the tire pressure.
Tire pressure drops when it gets cold. You can lose as much as one pound per square inch of pressure for every 10-degrees the temperature dips. Underinflated tires can lead to tire damage and unpredictable handling.

7. Test your heater and defroster.
Your BMW’s heater and defroster should be in proper working order to keep passengers warm and prevent the windows from icing up.