Supporting Your Vehicle with Winter Maintenance at Atchinson Ford

With winter weather arriving in southeast Michigan, now is the time to ensure your vehicle is prepared to handle the cold temperatures, snow, and ice. Proper winter maintenance is crucial for safe driving and avoiding breakdowns. In the Belleville, MI area, icy roads contribute to a substantial uptick in accidents during the winter months. But a bit of preventive maintenance can go a long way in keeping you safe on the roads this season.

Key Winter Maintenance Tasks

What are the most important winter maintenance items to take care of? It’s a good idea to get an oil and filter change to ensure your engine will run optimally in colder weather. Checking your antifreeze levels and battery are also critical, as freezing temperatures in places like Romulus, MI can impact your vehicle’s fluids and battery life. No one wants to end up with a dead battery in the middle of a snowstorm.

Tires are another key area to assess before winter. Proper tire pressure and sufficient tread depth are a must for maintaining traction on slippery surfaces. If you live in Ypsilanti, MI or frequently drive through snow, you may want to consider switching to winter tires for even better performance. It’s also wise to test that your heater and defroster are working properly so you can stay warm and maintain clear visibility.

Wiper blades are put to the test in winter to keep your windshield clear of slush and snow. Be sure to check that your blades are in good condition and replace them if needed. Keep your gas tank at least half full as well to prevent your fuel line from freezing. And it never hurts to assemble a winter emergency kit with jumper cables, flashlight, snow brush, warm clothing, and other essentials to keep in your car.

How Can Atchinson Ford Help With Your Winter Car Care Needs

While some winter maintenance items you can handle yourself, others are best left to the professionals. The certified technicians at your local Ford dealership have the expertise to get your vehicle winter-ready. Atchinson Ford in Belleville, MI offers full-service maintenance to check all your vehicle’s key systems and fluids. They can install new wiper blades, test your battery and charging system, and ensure your tires are properly inflated for the season.

If you live in Canton, MI or Wayne, MI, you know how harsh Michigan winters can be on your vehicle. Don’t wait until you’re stuck in a snowbank or your car won’t start to get it serviced for winter. Schedule an appointment at Atchinson Ford for peace of mind that your vehicle is prepared to brave the elements. Their experienced technicians will make sure your car, truck or SUV is winter-ready so you can drive safely all season long.

Winter Driving Tips

In addition to proper vehicle maintenance, adjusting your driving habits is important for staying safe on winter roads. Slow down and allow extra following distance when conditions are snowy or icy. Remember that bridges and overpasses freeze first and may be slippery even when other roads are dry. Avoid using cruise control in wintry weather and always accelerate and brake gradually to maintain traction. If you do find yourself sliding or skidding, steer in the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go and avoid slamming on the brakes.

Be Prepared This Winter

With a bit of preparation and preventive maintenance, you can drive confidently all winter long in southeast Michigan. Take the time now to get your vehicle serviced at Atchinson Ford in Belleville, MI and brush up on your winter driving skills. Doing so could help you avoid being among the nearly half a million crashes that occur in wintry conditions each year. Stay safe out there!

Tags: Atchinson Ford, Ford Service Center, Ford Services, Winter Maintenance
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