Although Kolkata isn’t known for its extreme winters, however, it is essential to make your car winter ready. Taking proper steps to prepare your car for the winter season can increase the lifespan of your vehicle. The right car care can reduce the cost of maintenance and repairs. So here are some steps on how you can do it.

Checking Car Lights And Battery
During winters, the sun sets early in the day and you’ll be using the lights more often so getting them checked or replaced is absolutely vital. Winter proofing your car should start with checking your battery first as nobody wants to be stranded on the road  trying to jump start their car when it’s chilly outside. Your car battery may find it more challenging to operate in cold weather than during summer. A weak battery may operate during warm weather, but it is likely to die during the winter season. Before you decide to go on a long journey, get the battery checked to make sure it is in working condition.

Changing Your Vehicle’s Fluids For Winters
Going from summer to winter, your vehicle’s fluids must be checked and in many cases, changed to keep things running in the optimal form. Just topping up the engine oil or coolant may not be the solution, especially if you have been using it for too long. In winters, it is recommended to use lighter engine oil which is right for the cold weather conditions. Follow the instructions given in the owner’s manual to find out the manufacturer’s recommended temperature ranges and fill the engine oil and coolant accordingly.

Inspecting The Windshield For Cracks And Checking The Climate Control
The windshield is an essential component of the vehicle. It helps in keeping out the elements, so you must perform a thorough check to identify cracks or seepage of water. In winters, fog, mist, etc. could accumulate on the car’s windshield, hampering your vision of the path ahead. This issue can be solved using the climate control (by balancing the inside and outside temperature). The defroster keeps your car windows from getting foggy and the climate control system works to keep you warm. Ensure both are in working condition and make suitable repairs or replacements if required.

Checking Tyres Pressure And Brakes
Tyres are the only contact patch between the car & the tarmac and they need regular maintenance, especially during winters. Before going out for a drive, check the tyre pressure and ensure it is up to the prescribed limits. You also need to check the tyre depth for wear & tear and replace them if necessary. For every 10 degree change in temperature, car tyres lose a pound of pressure. In cold weather, any pressure imbalance will make the situation difficult. In wet conditions, the roads have less grip and good brakes are necessary for your safety. Examine the brake pads and the discs for wear and tear and get them replaced if necessary.

Warming Up Your Engine Properly
This is more of a winter care tip for your car, when going out for a drive don’t just startup your car and instantly go out for the drive, let your car engine warm up properly. Warming up your engine properly will prevent damage and decrease wear and tear in your engine from a cold start. After a cold start let your ride idle for a few minutes then rev up your engine a bit so that the engine oil properly circulates throughout the system and helps it perform at its optimum.