Winter Watch List (Winter Maintenance Items)
June 30, 2025
Don't love winter weather? Here's a list of four things you need to keep a watch on during the winter months.
Let's start with coolant levels. Coolant is as important in cold weather as it is in hot weather. Think of the term "anti-freeze." Your coolant needs to be adjusted for climate and temperature so the coolant doesn't freeze when the vehicle isn't running. Your service facility will know the right mixture.
Next, windshield wiper fluid. Winter weather can be challenging when it comes to visibility, so it's important to have the correct windshield washer fluid. Some of it is specially formulated for ice and freezing temperatures. And it won't freeze if your vehicle has to sit out in below-freezing temperatures. And don't forget you can get winter wiper blades that stay clearer in snowy, icy weather than ordinary blades.
Don't forget your tire pressure and tread. After all, tires are what connect your vehicle and the road. As temperatures go down, so does the air pressure inside your tires, so it's important to keep that up to the manufacturer's recommended pressure. Also, make sure your tires have enough tread so they can grip slippery roads. Any service facility can perform a simple test so you'll know. If you need some new tires, they can help you find those that will fit your driving patterns.
Finally, oil gets thicker when the temperatures go down, so it's important to have the proper viscosity for your climate. Consult your service advisor who will make sure your vehicle is using what the manufacturer recommends.
Keep your vehicle prepared for winter weather and it will reward you with the safety and performance it's designed for.
Ryan?s Auto Repair of Plymouth
41990 Joy Rd
Plymouth, MI 48170
734-454-0979
http://www.ryansautorepairplymouth.com
Need Service?
More articles from Ryan's Auto Repair of Plymouth

Greeted by a Screech (Loud Noise when Starting Vehicle)
December 14, 2025
No one likes to be greeted in the morning by having someone screech at you. The same goes for a loud, high-pitched noise your vehicle greets you with every time you start the engine. If you're wondering if that's normal, no, it isn't. And it is worth getting checked out. The good news is that... More

In the Red (Why a Vehicle Overheats)
December 7, 2025
Heat is one thing that can damage a vehicle, especially if a problem isnt taken care of soon. Be on the lookout for signs that its getting too hot in some parts of your vehicle, starting with the most obvious one: the heat gauge/warning light on your instrument panel. When you see that heat gaug... More

All Lined Up (Alignment Inspection)
November 30, 2025
When you head down a straight road, does your vehicle pull to one side? Do you feel vibration in any of the wheels? If you've noticed any of these things, it's probably time for you to get your wheel alignment checked. When your vehicle left the factory, its wheels were parallel to each other an... More
