January has brought us a new year and new weather, and the warmer temperatures we’ve been experiencing bring their own pitfalls and potential risks to your automobile safety. An ounce of prevention can save you from unexpected break-downs and the cost of repairs. Midwinter is the best time to give your car a makeover.

The first line of defence to winter driving conditions is to prep your car with our winter auto maintenance package.

If it’s been a while since we’ve seen you or it’s your first time in, we’ll give your car a 31-point inspection to make sure it’s in good shape. This is really important in the winter months, as the thermal shock of going from cold to engine-hot every day adds extra strain to your motor’s coolant and fluid hoses. Make sure you also invest in a good set of winter tires, if you’re able.

The makeover’s not just under the hood. Your car’s integrity and beauty is most at risk in the winter, and this risk is higher in warm winters because there’s more salt in the water on the road. Road salt, sand, and grit from public and gravel roads will be pushed by your tires up into the wheel wells and undercarriage, trapping moisture and salts that corrode and rust body panels, exhaust, and exposed lines and surfaces.

Remedy this by making the effort to routinely wash your car; take it to an auto wash and get under the wheel wells and bumpers with the wand. If you have a large or low vehicle and are having difficulty, bring it by and we can give it a full detailing, including a thorough cleaning of the undercarriage with the power washer.

Detailing your car will protect the paint and finish by providing a hand wax that will help repel salts. Leaving dirt and salts on the exterior of your car has the same effect as leaving dirt under the panels – accelerating rust and dulling the finish. Keeping your car’s interior in good condition, clean, and clutter-free decreases the chance that you’ll be a distracted driver and also helps to protect your car’s resale value. People are more likely to buy a car if the interior is pristine.

No matter what kind of vehicle you drive, we can help you to keep it looking, and driving, at it’s very best.

Contact Warrenton Auto Service to book your winterizing appointment today.