Safety is of the utmost importance during the winter, the stopping distance is reduced, as well as visibility. We’re committed to keeping your vehicle in great condition during the winter, as well as keeping your vehicle safe for you and your loved ones in the snowy midwestern winter. Follow these helpful tips for the winter months from Patrick BMW.
• Battery: Batteries are susceptible to the cold and you risk the potential of failure if your battery is weak. Make sure to test it regularly, and if it's older than three years, consider replacing it. Don’t leave it up to chance, if you hear something off, make sure to get it in to our service department for a diagnostic check.
• Fluids: Check and top off all of your fluids-ensure your antifreeze has the correct 50:50 coolant-to-water ratio, and fill your washer fluid with a formula rated for freezing temperatures.
• Belts and hoses: Cold temperatures can make belts and hoses prone to breakage. Inspect them for cracks and wear. Give us a call-it’s always better to be safe if you’re not sure.
• Change your oil: Cold weather tends to thicken oil and reduce its ability to circulate through the engine, so make sure that you keep up with your scheduled oil change. Some experts recommend using a thinner oil during the winter months, however, make sure to talk to your BMW service advisor if you have any questions or concerns.
Tires and visibility
• Tires: As tire pressure drops with the cold weather, it is important to note what the recommended tire pressure is for your vehicle in the cold, and make sure to check it regularly. For the winter it’s imperative that your tire tread is good, especially with the snow and ice reducing stopping distance. Talk to your BMW service advisor to see what the right fit is for your vehicle.
• Wiper blades: Replace worn wiper blades for better visibility and make sure your washer fluid is winter-specific to prevent freezing.
• Lights: Ensure all your exterior lights are working. Shorter days and longer nights make proper lighting crucial for visibility.
• Heater and defroster: The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility. Your air conditioner needs to be functional as well to ensure proper defrost operation. If your windows are fogging up in the winter it’s important to get it checked out to ensure proper visibility and safety.
• Brakes: Have your brake pads inspected for wear, as stopping distances increase on icy roads. Talk with your service advisor on when and if your brake pads need to be replaced. The winter is supposed to be a rough one, and it may be in your best interest to replace them, even if they still have a little life left in them.
Emergency preparedness
• Emergency kit: Pack a kit with essentials like jumper cables, a blanket, a flashlight, an ice scraper, and some non-perishable snacks. Make sure you are educated on how to jump start your vehicle if need be as well.
• Clean up: Wash your car's undercarriage to remove road salt, which can cause rust. Make sure to regularly go to a touchless car wash to ensure that the road salt doesn’t damage the paint or cause any rust to your vehicle!
By following these maintenance tips, you can enhance your vehicle’s performance, safety, and longevity. If you’re unsure about your vehicle’s condition or need assistance with maintenance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Patrick BMW. Your Ultimate Driving Machine deserves the best care, especially during the cold and snowy midwest winter!