Winter weather can be tough on trucks, especially in areas around South Bend that get their fair share of snow and ice. Cold temperatures, salt, and slush can take a toll on your vehicle, which is why proper winter maintenance is crucial. At S&H Auto Group - Elkhart, we want to make sure your truck is ready to handle whatever winter throws its way. Our service center in Elkhart handles winter truck maintenance and can have you prepared. You can also follow these winter maintenance tips to keep your truck in tip-top shape.
Winter Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Truck Running Smoothly
Check Your Tires
Tires are your truck's first line of defense against slippery winter roads. Make sure yours have plenty of tread depth to provide the traction you need. As you motor around Mishawaka in wintry conditions, your set of winter tires will provide the necessary grip on snowy and icy surfaces. Don't forget to check your tire pressure regularly, as colder temperatures can cause air pressure to drop.
Test Your Battery
Cold weather is notorious for draining batteries. If your truck's battery is more than a few years old, it may struggle to start on those frigid South Bend mornings. Have your battery tested to ensure it's holding a charge and replace it if necessary. It's better to take care of this now than to end up stranded miles away from your Niles, MI neighborhood with a dead battery.
Monitor Fluid Levels
Engine oil, antifreeze, brake fluid, and other vital fluids are your truck's lifeblood. Make sure they're at the proper levels and in good condition. If you're due for an oil change, don't put it off. Consider switching to a lower viscosity oil in the winter for better cold-weather performance.
Inspect Belts and Hoses
Cold temperatures can cause belts and hoses to become brittle and crack. Give them a thorough inspection and replace any that are showing signs of wear. A snapped serpentine belt or burst coolant hose can leave you stranded on the side of the road in Osceola, IN or another location far from home.
Replace Wiper Blades
Visibility is critical when driving in winter weather around Goshen. If your wiper blades are leaving streaks or missing spots, it's time for a new set. Consider upgrading to winter wiper blades, which are designed to resist ice and snow buildup.
Don't Neglect Regular Maintenance
In addition to these winter-specific tasks, it's important to stay on top of your truck's regular maintenance schedule. Change the air filter and rotate the truck's tires. Be sure to check the brakes so you can stop with confidence on slick South Bend roads.
Be Prepared for Winter Driving
Even with proper maintenance, winter driving can be challenging. Always slow down and leave plenty of space between you and other vehicles when roads are slippery. Keep an emergency kit in your truck with items like a blanket, flashlight, snacks, and a shovel in case you do get stuck.
Schedule Service Online for Expert Winter Truck Maintenance in Elkhart
Get winter truck maintenance in Elkhart by servicing with S&H Auto Group. More than a used car dealer serving South Bend, we provide expert service to keep your truck moving in the worst winter weather conditions. Handling winter truck maintenance now will save you the stress of dealing with bad road conditions during an upcoming towing voyage. Follow these maintenance tips and schedule service online so your truck is prepared for whatever Mother Nature has in store for Indiana this winter.