Here in Greensboro and the rest of the Piedmont Triad, we don't have to worry much about tire chains and snow tires but just because we don't get a lot of snow doesn't mean we don't need to winterize our cars. Here's some things you should check.
1. Check the level and usefulness of your antifreeze using an antifreeze tester. An antifreeze tester is a hydrometer that is graduated especially for antifreeze. Most cars need to be protected to -20 even though it never gets that cold here. Any hydrometer can check the specific gravity of your antifreeze but then you'd have to do a bunch of equations to convert specific gravity measurements to your level of protection. Besides, if you happen to use a battery hydrometer then you risk getting battery acid in your cooling system.
2. Speaking of batteries-- how old is your battery? If it's over 3 years old then you might do well to replace it with a newer battery. If you can't afford a new battery then try an almost new battery from any of the used auto parts dealers listed here at GreensboroJunkyards.com.
3. Check all your belts and hoses. And replace any belt or hose that is over 5 years old even if it still looks good.
4. Like I said, you won't need snow tires but you do need good tires. All of our area junkyards sell good used tires if new tires are too expensive. And by all means, make sure your tires are aired-up to the specifications on the sides of your tires.
5. Is anything leaking from under your car? If yes then get it fixed ASAP.
6. When was the last time you had an oil and filter change?
7. Fill up that windshield-washer bottle with windshield washer fluid as plain water will freeze and burst the plastic bottle. And don't forget new windshield wiper blades.
8. Keep the following items in a box in your trunk:
*a blanket
*extra boots and gloves
*an extra set of warm clothes
*extra water and food, including hard candies
*an ice scraper
*a small shovel
*a flashlight with a flashing red light built in
*windshield washer fluid
*jumper cables
*a tire gauge
*a spare tire with air in it
*a first-aid kit
*paper towels
9. Write down the telephone numbers of an area 24/7 towing service and your motor club if you belong to one and keep them in your glove box. Is your cell phone charged?
10. If your car is more than 5 or 6 years old, now is a good time to pour a bottle of fuel conditioner in your gas tank. Gasoline and diesel fuel won't freeze here in Greensboro but the water that accumulates in your fuel over time can freeze and the end result is the same.
