Winter weather can wreak havoc on your vehicle, especially in the Chicago area, where freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and icy roads are common. These harsh conditions can take a toll on your car or truck's critical components, making it essential to prepare your vehicle for winter with some preventative maintenance. At McCarthy Ford, serving Chicago, IL, and the surrounding areas, we make it easy to get your vehicle winter-ready.
Essential Winter Vehicle Services
Our factory-trained technicians recommend performing the following services before the cold weather hits to make sure your vehicle is in peak condition:
- Oil and Filter Change - As temperatures drop, motor oil thickens, making it harder for your engine to turn over. Switching to a lower viscosity oil for winter helps keep your engine lubricated and running smoothly. Residents of Oak Lawn can trust our service center for expert oil changes.
- Tire Inspection - Proper tire pressure and tread depth are crucial for maintaining traction on slippery roads. Cold weather can cause tire pressure to drop, so it's important to check and adjust tire pressure regularly. If you live in the Calumet City area, schedule a tire inspection at our dealership to make sure your tires are ready for winter.
- Battery Test - Cold temperatures can reduce your vehicle's battery power, making it harder to start your engine. A simple battery test will determine if your battery has enough charge to last the season. Dolton drivers can have their battery tested and replaced at our nearby service center if necessary.
- Coolant Flush - Coolant, or antifreeze, keeps your engine from freezing in extreme cold. Over time, coolant can become contaminated, reducing its effectiveness. A coolant flush before winter removes dirt and debris, protecting your engine and keeping it running at the optimal temperature. We offer convenient coolant flush services for residents of the Alsip area.
- Wiper Blade Replacement - Clear visibility is essential during winter precipitation. If your wiper blades are worn, cracked, or leaving streaks, it's time for a replacement. We stock a variety of wiper blade sizes to make sure Palos Heights drivers can maintain a clear windshield all winter long.
- Brake Inspection - Your vehicle's braking system is critical for keeping you safe on icy roads. Our technicians will inspect your brakes and recommend any necessary repairs or replacements, giving you peace of mind knowing you can stop safely in wintery conditions.
The Importance of a Winter Emergency Car Kit
In addition to getting your vehicle serviced for winter, we strongly recommend keeping a winter emergency kit in your car. If you get stranded in cold weather, a well-stocked kit can help keep you safe and comfortable until help arrives. Your winter car kit should include:
- Warm blanket or sleeping bag
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- First-aid kit
- Ice scraper and snow brush
- Jumper cables
- Bottled water and non-perishable snacks
- Bag of sand, cat litter, or traction mats
- Extra winter clothing, such as gloves, hats, and boots
By having these essential items in your vehicle, you'll be better prepared for any winter emergency that may arise while on the road.
Trust McCarthy Ford for Your Winter Vehicle Service Needs
Don't wait for the first snowfall to get your vehicle ready for winter. Schedule your winter maintenance service at McCarthy Ford today. Our experienced technicians use genuine OEM parts to make sure your vehicle performs at its highest all winter long. We proudly serve drivers from Chicago, Oak Lawn, Calumet City, and beyond at our expert service facility located in Chicago, IL.
For your convenience, you can easily schedule your winter service appointment online or by calling our friendly service team. Trust McCarthy Ford to keep you and your vehicle safe on the roads this winter season.