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Winter brings snow and freezing temperatures, which make driving conditions more challenging. It’s important to ensure your vehicle is functioning properly to minimize the risk of an emergency on the road. Part 1 of this blog series noted that getting regular oil changes, topping off all fluids, and investing in snow tires are all good ways to get your vehicle ready for winter. Here are 3 more important ways to prepare for winter driving:

Make Sure Your Check Engine Light is Off

If your pesky dashboard light has been on and you’re not sure why, then your car could be telling you that there is an issue that should be promptly addressed. Ignoring your dashboard light can lead to serious consequences, so it’s better to be in the know. If your check engine light is on, it could be signaling that you need engine service. Your check engine light alerts you to minor issues before they turn into significant repairs. Your local auto and tire shop can run engine diagnostics to determine why your light is on and can make the proper repairs to get you safely back on the road without your check engine light glowing.

Fill Up Your Tires

Having a flat tire is no fun any time of year, but especially during the winter months when conditions are freezing, snowy, and icy. Maintaining your proper tire pressure is critical for keeping your tires fully functional. It also helps prolong tire life; when you drive around for too long without enough air in your tires, this impacts the tread wear and can lead to expedited tire damage. It’s important to note that all-season tires lose air quickly during the winter months because of the major drops in temperature, so filling up your all-season tires needs to happen frequently. However, investing in snow tires is a smart option because they retain air longer than all-season tires and are specifically designed for winter driving. If your TPMS service light is on, if you notice tire damage, or if you need assistance filling your tires, visit your local auto shop in River Falls.

Test Your Battery

Making sure your car’s battery is working properly is essential for winter. Your battery supplies the necessary power to start your vehicle and helps keep it running. Your local auto shop can test your battery for you to help make sure it’s working as it should. There are several signs that point to needing a battery charge or a new car battery. If your engine is hard to start or makes rapid clicking noises when being started, these are major indicators. If your ALT or CHARGE dashboard light illuminates or if your vehicle’s headlights abruptly go dim, these are also signs of battery failure. Also, watch out for an odd smell (akin to rotten eggs) when the car is running, or if you notice various electrical components malfunctioning like your power windows, locks, dashboard lights, or the radio. Get vehicle battery service to help ensure your car will be reliable this winter.

If you need auto repair or tire services in River Falls, or you want to invest in winter tires, contact Tire Pros & Wheel Experts. Our team of auto technicians offers any service you may need to make sure your vehicle is safe to operate on the roads this winter. Contact us to schedule an appointment or to learn more about how any of our auto services or snow tires in River Falls can benefit you.