TIP#1 - WHEN TO INSTALL WINTER TIRES
Winter tires stay flexible in temperatures below 7°C to provide the necessary traction for cold-weather driving conditions. They reduce braking distance on cold, wet, ice and snow-covered roads in comparison to all-season tires. The traction provided by winter tires enhances the performance of anti-lock braking systems (ABS), vehicle stability assist (VSA), traction control and all-wheel drive in winter conditions. In cold weather, a vehicle equipped with winter tires has a 40% less chance of being involved in a collision versus one equipped with all-season tires. Bring your vehicle into Valentine Volvo to have your current tire tread checked for seasonal wear.
TIP#2 - PROPER INFLATION
A well balanced Volvo makes your winter ride smoother and safer for everyone on the road. Tire pressure often goes unchecked between the seasons, with up to 70% of vehicles on the road having at least one under-inflated tire. Studies have shown that checking and maintaining tire pressure regularly will help extend tire life and reduce fuel consumption. Every time you check your Volvo’s tire pressure, examine the tires for damage, foreign objects, and wear. Continuing a regular factory maintenance schedule can help keep your tires in check and prevent larger costly problems from occurring.
TIP#3 - KEEPING COOLANTS COOL
Radiators need to work their best through the long winter months. Necessary coolants protect against freezing so regular antifreeze checks become one of the most crucial parts of the winterizing process. Coolants also protect against corrosion and help lubricate your water pump all year long. Thoroughly flush the radiator system for maximum efficiency when it's time to replace coolant.
TIP#4 - BATTERY CHECK
Your battery loses power when the temperature dips below freezing. To prevent power output drops, batteries and connection cables should be checked for cracking and corrosion regularly. Seasonal inspections of the battery and cables by our trained technicians can help avoid your vehicle from stalling or having your battery boosted unnecessarily. Genuine Volvo replacement batteries are manufactured to match your Volvo’s electrical system specifications and power your Volvo through the seasons.
TIP#5 - LUBRICATING YOUR DOORS
The car interior heating up and cooling down during winter can create moisture build up in your doors, freezing the seals to the doorframe. Newer vehicles are protected by tight weather stripping, but a winter check-up is necessary to ensure that all parts of your vehicle are in working order. Schedule a check up with a Valentine Volvo parts specialist before the first snowfall today!
TIP#6 - CARRY A EMERGENCY KIT
It’s a good idea to keep a winter survival kit in your vehicle. Having essential supplies can provide some comfort and safety for you and your passengers should you become stranded. Some items could include are jumper cables, flash lights, first aid kit, road flares, blankets or a shovel.
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