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Did your car have a hard time adjusting to winter weather this season? With these tips from South Lakes Sunoco in Reston, VA, you can be better prepared for colder temperatures the next time the seasons change!

Why is winter preparation important?

It's essential to prepare your vehicle for winter weather because many of the most crucial components of your vehicle, such as the tires, engine oil, and even windshield wipers, will perform less effectively or perform differently in colder temperatures. If you don't keep up with regular maintenance for your vehicle, you could find yourself stranded on the side of the road, and there is no worse time to find yourself stuck than when the temperatures are freezing.

What steps should you take to prepare for your car winter?

To best prepare your vehicle for winter weather, you should check the following components of your vehicle:

Tires: When temperatures drop, so does your tire pressure. Low tire pressure during the winter months can be dangerous—be sure to check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended PSI listed in your owner's manual. You'll also want to check the tread on your tires for excessive wear. There is no worse time than winter to drive on worn out tires. To check your tread depth, place a penny between the tread of your tire with Lincoln's head facing down. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, it's time for new tires.

Engine Oil: You may want to consider using a different type of engine oil for the winter months than you do in the summer. More viscous engine oils will have difficulty moving throughout your engine when the temperatures are low, so it may be a good idea to swap out for a thinner formula before winter comes.

A/C: Poorly functioning heat in your vehicle may sound like a comfort issue, but it quickly becomes a matter of safety if you ever become stranded in freezing temperatures without functioning heat. If your heat isn't blowing like it should, head to South Lakes Sunoco in Reston, VA, and we will fix you right up.

Battery: Cold weather will kill a battery on its last legs faster than anything else will. If your vehicle is between 3-5 years old, come to South Lakes Sunoco before the cold weather hits, and we will test your battery free of charge!

Don't wait! Call or schedule your winter preparation appointment online today at South Lakes Sunoco in Reston, VA. Our experienced technicians are ready and waiting to help.