News

Winter's icy roads and frigid temperatures pose significant challenges for drivers, and that's especially true when you're in Alaska. It's safe to say we need our cars to be a little more prepared for winter's challenges than most motorists in other states. Here, it's easy to find yourself out in an area that isn't as near civilization, and you don't need your car leaving you stranded in a remote location if possible. That's why preparing your car for winter is important. And with December just around the corner, now's the perfect time to give your car a check if you've been putting off winter maintenance. 

Here are tips to get your vehicle winter-ready for Wasilla.

Check Your Battery

Cold weather can significantly affect your car's battery performance. In Wasilla, where temperatures can drop well below freezing, it's vital to ensure your battery is in good condition. Check for corrosion on the terminals and clean them if necessary. If your battery is more than three years old, have it tested. A weak battery can leave you stranded, so replacing it before winter is a wise investment.

Inspect Your Tires and/or Change Them

Tires are your car's only contact with the road, making them critical for safe winter driving. Start by checking the tread depth; it should be at least 4/32 of an inch to provide adequate traction on snow and ice. That said, if you are on the lower end, start planning on your next tire purchase and installation. Also consider swapping to winter tires for the season (if you don't already have them installed). These tires are designed to perform better in severe winter conditions.

And don't forget to make sure your tires are properly inflated. Check your tire pressure regularly, because your tires will lose pressure in cold weather.

Change Your Oil and Fluids

If it's time to change your oil, make sure to get it done. Keeping up on with your oil change intervals is important, and something highly encouraged at Wasilla Lube Express. Clean oil is good for your engine and your fuel economy. Regular oil changes remove contaminants and prevent sludge buildup, which can lead to engine wear and failure. Fresh oil also maintains proper lubrication, reducing friction and improving fuel economy and overall performance. In Wasilla's climate, where temperatures can vary significantly, maintaining regular oil changes is a small but important step for engine health and reliability.

We have quality oils formulated to deliver the performance you need during winter.

Wiper Blades, Windshield Wiper Fluid, and Defroster

Make sure you have good wiper blades installed and that your car is topped off on windshield washer fluid with de-icer. In fact, it's not  bad idea to stock up and have spare fluid. A single winter storm can have you going through more windshield washer fluid than you thought you would. Speaking of keeping your windshield clean, you'll also want to run a defroster check. If your car's defroster isn't working that great, get it checked.

Equip Your Car with Some Helpful, Emergency Items

It's not a bad idea to be prepared in the event you find yourself stuck due to an unforeseen issue. For example, you can keep some blankets in your car, invest in a portable power bank for your smartphone (and keep it full), bring along a portable tire inflator, and keep a flashlight handy.

At Wasilla Lube Express, we can assist you with preparing your car for winter in Wasilla. You can learn more about our automotive services here. Until next time, we wish you well and safe travels.