Fayetteville winters aren't Buffalo winters, but freezing nights, the occasional ice storm, and the long stretches of cold rain still take a toll on a vehicle. A few simple checks now will save you breakdowns and headaches later.
Test Your Battery
Cold weather is hard on batteries. A battery that limps through summer can leave you stranded the first time the temperature drops below freezing. If yours is more than three years old, have it tested. Most parts stores will check it for free, and so will we — just stop by the shop.
Check Your Tires
Tire pressure drops about one PSI for every ten degrees the temperature falls. Underinflated tires wear faster, hurt your fuel economy, and reduce traction in wet or icy conditions. Check the pressure once the weather actually turns cold, not before. The correct PSI is on the sticker inside your driver's door — not on the tire itself.
Inspect Your Wipers and Washer Fluid
Old wiper blades smear and skip in cold rain, exactly when you can't afford it. Replace them if they're streaking. Top up your washer fluid with a winter blend that won't freeze on the windshield.
Look at Your Belts and Hoses
Cold makes rubber brittle. A belt or hose that was barely hanging on in November can crack and fail in January. Open the hood and look for visible cracks, frays, or soft spots. Better to replace a $30 belt in the shop than have it break on the side of I-95.
Top Off Fluids
- Engine coolant — make sure the antifreeze concentration is correct
- Engine oil — change it on schedule
- Brake fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Transmission fluid
Pack a Cold-Weather Kit
Even short trips can turn into long waits if traffic is bad after an ice storm. A small kit in your trunk should include a blanket, a flashlight with fresh batteries, jumper cables, a phone charger, water, and some snacks. You'll probably never need it, but if you do, you'll be glad it's there.
Want a Winter Inspection?
Drop by Bundy's Tire & Auto Repair on West Mountain Drive or call us at (910) 491-1130. We'll look your vehicle over, tell you what's actually a concern, and skip the upsells. Honest service, fair prices — that's the whole point.
Need Service?
Bundy's Tire & Auto Repair is at 326 W Mountain Drive in Fayetteville, NC. Call us during business hours or use the after-hours line for roadside emergencies.
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