5 Essential Winter Vehicle Maintenance Tips for Royal Oak Drivers

Winter in Royal Oak, MI, brings unpredictable weather, icy roads, and freezing temperatures, making vehicle maintenance more important than ever. At First Call Auto Care, we are committed to keeping your car safe and reliable throughout the season. Follow these five essential winter maintenance tips to ensure a smooth and worry-free drive.

1. Replace Your Wiper blades

Even premium-quality wiper blades can lose effectiveness in as little as six months. The cold weather can cause wipers to become brittle, bent, or skip across your windshield.

Replacing your wiper blades before winter arrives ensures you have a clear view of the road, even in heavy snowfall. If you’re unsure which blades are best for your vehicle, our team at First Call Auto Care can help you choose and install the right ones.

2. Check Your battery

Cold weather can reduce your battery's efficiency by up to 50%. Low temperatures put additional strain on the battery, making it harder to start your engine.

Before winter, inspect your battery for corrosion, loose connections, or signs of wear. If your battery is more than three years old, consider having it tested at our shop to ensure it’s in good condition and won’t leave you stranded in the cold.

3. Warm up Your Vehicle

Warming up your engine before driving can enhance its performance during winter, but it’s crucial to do it safely. Avoid idling your car in an enclosed garage, as this can lead to carbon monoxide buildup.

Instead, follow these safety tips:

• Open your garage door before starting your car.
• Move your vehicle out of the garage immediately after starting it.
• Let it idle for a minute or two before driving.

For further winter care tips, our experts at First Call Auto Care are happy to help!

4. Inspect Your Tires

Your tires are your vehicle’s first line of defense against the icy and wet roads of Royal Oak. Proper tread depth ensures maximum traction, reducing the risk of skidding.

A simple way to check your tread is with the penny test: insert a penny into the tread groove with Lincoln’s head facing downward. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, your tread is too worn, and it's time for new tires.

Additionally, consider switching to winter tires for enhanced grip in snowy conditions. Need help selecting the right set? Visit First Call Auto Care for expert advice and installation.

5. Change your oil, check your fluids

Cold temperatures can cause your vehicle’s fluids to thicken, making it harder for your engine to function efficiently. This includes motor oil, transmission fluid, and antifreeze.

Using a winter-grade synthetic blend oil can help keep your engine running smoothly. Checking and topping off all other essential fluids is equally important to prevent freezing or sluggish performance. At First Call Auto Care, we offer comprehensive oil changes and fluid checks to keep your vehicle in peak condition.

Come see us