8 Tips to Protect Your Car in Winter

Of course, the best way to protect your car is to keep it in a garage, but unfortunately, not every vehicle has the luxury of staying warm indoors. Trans-Mico offers 8 tips to help protect your car during winter!

1. Cover your vehicle

To protect your vehicle from frost and the elements, a car cover is a great option. You may think that putting it on and taking it off regularly is inconvenient. You’re probably right, but it can be well worth the effort.

2. Protect your windows and windshield wipers from freezing

Your windows and windshield wipers don’t handle frost well. To keep them in good condition, make sure you use windshield washer fluid designed for freezing temperatures. You should also keep your windows and wiper blades clean to help prevent ice and frost buildup.

3. Don’t let your fuel tank get too low

Avoid leaving your fuel tank empty or nearly empty during winter, as this can increase condensation inside the tank. Moisture can cause problems in the fuel system, particularly in modern diesel vehicles. Using an appropriate fuel system cleaner occasionally may also help keep the system clean.

4. Use glycerin

Glycerin can help protect the rubber components of your vehicle from cold temperatures. Apply it to door seals to help prevent them from freezing and sticking during cold weather.

5. Check your tires

Cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to decrease. Check your tire pressure regularly throughout the winter and always follow the pressure recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.

6. Give your vehicle time to warm up

In very cold weather, give your vehicle a short moment after starting before driving. There is no need to let the engine idle for several minutes; driving gently at first allows the engine and other mechanical components to gradually reach their normal operating temperature.

7. Watch out for rodents

Whether you live in the city or the countryside, rodents can sometimes find their way into the engine compartment and damage electrical wiring. To help prevent this type of problem, Trans-Mico recommends using an appropriate rodent repellent around the vehicle when necessary.

8. Take care of the bodywork

Vehicles parked outdoors are exposed to the elements year-round.

• During summer, dirt, dust and environmental contaminants can accumulate on the bodywork and in hard-to-reach areas.
• During winter, moisture can contribute to rust, while road salt can damage the vehicle’s finish and accelerate corrosion.

Trans-Mico recommends cleaning your vehicle regularly and applying rust protection to help protect it during winter.