The winter months mark the beginning of a challenging period, not only for drivers but also for vehicles. Adverse conditions such as cold weather, rain, snow, and ice directly impact your vehicle's performance and safety. Therefore, comprehensive maintenance before winter arrives is crucial for both your driving safety and your vehicle's longevity. At RentiCar, we've compiled the most critical maintenance details step-by-step in this guide to help you navigate the winter months smoothly and safely.
Tires
Tires are the most vital point of winter maintenance. Summer tires harden in cold weather and significantly lose their grip on the road.
1. **Winter Tires:** When the temperature drops below 7°C, winter tires, with their softer compound, improve road grip and shorten braking distance. At RentiCar, even if winter tires are not mandatory in your region, we strongly recommend using them when temperatures are below 7°C.
2. **Tread Depth:** Ensures proper water and snow drainage. While the legal limit is 1.6 mm, anything below 4 mm is risky for winter. Check your tire tread depth and replace them if necessary.
3. **Tire Pressure:** Cold weather reduces tire pressure. Low pressure increases fuel consumption and weakens road grip. Check and adjust the pressure according to the manufacturer's recommendation. Don't forget the spare tire!
Fluids
During winter, your vehicle's fluid levels and quality are critically important. Incorrect or insufficient fluids can cause severe damage to the engine and cooling system.
1. **Antifreeze (Coolant)**
**Function:** Prevents the water in the engine's cooling system from freezing. It also provides protection against rust and corrosion.
**Critical Check:** Have the freezing point of your antifreeze measured by a professional.
2. **Engine Oil**
**Important Detail:** Engine oil thickens in the cold. Using a lower viscosity oil suitable for winter conditions (e.g., 5W-30) ensures faster engine lubrication during cold starts.
3. **Windshield Washer Fluid**
**Freezing Risk:** Standard windshield washer fluids freeze below zero and can damage the nozzles.
**Solution:** Always use washer fluid with antifreeze. This not only prevents freezing but also helps to dissolve ice and snow stuck to the windshield.
Electrical System
Cold weather can reduce battery performance by half and decrease starting power.
**Battery Check:** Have your battery's voltage and charge status measured. Ensure the battery terminals are not oxidized. If your battery is over 3 years old, it is essential to have it checked, especially before the cold sets in.
**Headlights and Lights:** Ensure all lights, including low beams, high beams, fog lights, and brake lights, are working. Proper lighting is fundamental to your safety during winter months when visibility is reduced.
Visibility
Having good visibility is crucial in winter due to snow, ice, and heavy rain.
**Wiper Blades:** Check that the wiper blades are not torn or hardened. Good wipers should clear rain and snow without leaving streaks.
**Defrosters:** Ensure the rear window and side mirror defrosters are working to melt ice.
**Air Conditioning System:** It's important not only for heating but also for quickly defogging the windshield. Make sure your air conditioning system (especially heating and fan speeds) is working properly.
What to Keep in Your Vehicle
Being prepared for unexpected situations is part of winter driving.
**Chains, Tow Rope, and Wheel Chocks:** These may be mandatory on snowy and icy roads. Learn how to install your chains in advance.
**Emergency Kit:** Pack a blanket, first-aid kit, flashlight, snacks, and drinking water.
**Ice Scraper and De-icing Spray:** Keep these items handy to clear your windows before starting your car in the morning.
Postponing winter maintenance not only increases the risk of getting stranded but can also cause permanent damage to your vehicle's engine and mechanical parts. At RentiCar, we recommend having these critical checks performed by a professional service center.
At RentiCar, you can rent the vehicle that suits your needs from hundreds of companies at the best price. All vehicles are regularly maintained, and 24/7 customer support is provided in case of any issues. Check out our daily and monthly car rental campaigns.
We wish you safe and enjoyable driving!
