Do you want to prepare your car for the coming of winter?
Winter can be a real nuisance for car owners everywhere. The chilly winds and abundant snow (if you visit the Sierras) can inflict serious damage and impact a car’s performance. It is always recommended to get your BMW maintained and serviced before winter. Failure to do so can mean sitting stuck in a freezing car in the middle of the night with no one to help.
Cars breaking down are a very common occurrence in winter. Avoid the mistakes which lead to this problem and follow the below steps. If you have the following protocols checked, your BMW will be well prepared to tackle winter.
Battery Maintenance
Your BMW’s battery is necessary to start the car. The battery does this by producing the electrical current necessary to start the car. The winter cold can heavily reduce the current production. That is why it takes longer for cars to start in winter.
You should get your battery tested and checked at auto-shops. Replace a very old battery with a good quality new one. Also, inspect the water levels in the battery.
Coolant System Maintenance
Your coolant system is not intended for the summer alone. The need for a proper working coolant system will not go away just because it’s winter. It is more accurate to say that coolant is needed to maintain a stable temperature for the engine. The winter cold can be just as damaging for your engine as the summer heat.
Ensure your piping isn’t brittle or soft. Also, check for any leaks or rips. These problems can shut down your car in the middle of nowhere. You should also adjust the coolant-water mix to ensure the coolant doesn’t freeze.
Tire Inspection
The cold can affect your BMW tires in many ways. The cold can cause the pressure in your tire to drop which can cause deflation. It is risky to drive a car with deflated tires so always ensure you get your wind pressure checked.
You should also inspect your tires for general age, wear, and tear before winter. The cold can also cause the tire rubber to contract. If your tire is very old and worn down, it can burst and cause your car to skid. Consider investing in purpose-built winter tires if you see a lot of snowfall.
Oil Check
Check whether your motor oil is made for all-seasons. If it is not suitable for winter then change your motor oil. Motor oil can become thick due to the cold and this affects engine lubrication. Your BMW engine will be worn down quicker if it is not well lubricated.
Conclusion
You should never put off pre-winter maintenance for your BMW. Your expensive car will only be further exposed to damage and degradation. You will also be placing your own life at increased risk of accidents.
Give North Bay Bavarian a visit for all your BMW maintenance and service needs. Our experts will have your BMW battle ready for winter.
Visit our website for more information on our maintenance services.
