Winterize Your Car in SoCal? For Real? It’s More Important than You Think

Even though Southern California is known for its warm ocean breezes, it does turn colder in the winter time. Your summer loving ride is all set to cruise under a moonlit night, but what about when it dips into the 40’s, and you are driving through sudden downpours. Bring your car in for a winter inspection and service at your favorite Beach Boulevard of Cars dealership and keep rolling safely and comfortably until summer weather returns.

Do You need to Check Your Wipers, Tires, and Belts for Winter?

Every car needs its wipers changed out twice a year, so you aren’t blinking through a streaky windshield when the winter rains come.  California sun and sun does more than tan as it also shortens the lifespan of the wiper blades.  Inspect your tires for tread wear. If your tires are old, they will slide through puddles and into ditches. Your engine belts keep your steering, air conditioning, and fans functioning. Replacing them on time prevents a trip on the back of a tow truck.

Do Your Heater and Defroster Work?

Even in Southern California, the night temperatures dip low, and it’s not fun climbing into a cold car and shivering all the way home. Have your heater tested and repaired before winter. Then, when you take to the mountains, you’ll be ready.  You should also be aware that a functioning defroster also works to clear mist from the windows.

Will a Car Wash Protect it from the Salty Ocean Air?

Maybe Southern California doesn’t need to put salt down on the roads to melt away the snow, but it lands on your car every time you visit the beach. Take your car in for a thorough wash and wax and don’t forget the under-carriage! The bath will help to prevent corrosion from taking over and protect that beautiful paint job.

Is Your Battery, Oil, and Coolant Ready for the Cold Temperatures?

Just because you don’t expect to start your car in sub-zero temperatures does not mean that your battery will last forever. When it is time to take your car in for its next oil change, have the battery tested. If it is more than four years old, you might want to change the battery out, so you aren’t stranded when it fails to start the car. Also, have the coolant in the radiator tested and flushed if needed. This activity ensures protecting your engine from freezing when you take a ski trip, but it also prevents damage from the searing heat in the desert.

Heading off to the Mountains for some Winter Fun?

Should you plan to take in snow-covered vistas this winter, you will need to swap out your summer performance tires for snow tires. If you’re flying into a winter wonderland, consider renting a ride with all-wheel or four-wheel drive for the vacation to help you navigate icy roads.

No matter if you are staying put in Huntington Beach for the winter months or exploring the beauty of snow-covered mountains, make sure your car is ready to stand up to everything Mother Nature has in store. Schedule your next service appointment at the Beach Boulevard of Cars today.