Keep Your Ride Safe and Sound This Season
As temperatures drop and snow begins to fall, your car requires some extra care to handle the challenges of winter driving. Whether you own a GMC, Buick, or any other vehicle, proper maintenance can ensure your car stays reliable throughout this season. Here are some essential tips to keep your car running smoothly, with sections tailored for GMC and Buick owners.
Winter Car Maintenance Tips
- Check Your Battery Health
Cold weather can drain your battery faster than you might expect. Make sure it’s fully charged and have it tested to ensure it can handle the winter months. If your battery is more than three years old, consider replacing it. - Inspect and Replace Wipers
Visibility is crucial during winter storms. Replace worn-out wiper blades and top off your windshield washer fluid with a winter formula to prevent freezing. - Switch to Winter Tires
If you frequently drive in snowy or icy conditions, invest in winter tires. These provide better traction and handling than all-season tires in cold weather. - Monitor Tire Pressure
Tire pressure drops as temperatures fall, so check it regularly. Properly inflated tired improve grip and fuel efficiency. - Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Car
Stock your vehicle with essentials like a blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, ice scraper, and non-perishable snacks in case of a breakdown or unexpected weather delays.
Winter Maintenance Tips for GMC Vehicles
GMC vehicles are built for performance and reliability, but a little extra car in winter can go a long way.
- Optimize Your All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)
GMC vehicles like the Terrain and Sierra often come equipped with AWD or 4WD. Ensure these systems are in working order before winter hits. If your GMC has selectble drive modes, familiarize yourself with the best setting for snow and ice. - Check the Heating System
GMC vehicles are designed with comfortable interiors in mind, but a faulty heating system can make winter unbearable. Ensure the cabin heater and defroster are functioning properly. - Inspect the GMC IntelliLink System
Your infotainment system can be a lifesaver in bad weather, providing real-time navigation and weather updates. Make sure it’s up to date for optimal performance. - Protect Your Exterior
Salt and slush can corrode your car’s paint. Apply a protective wax coating to your GMC vehicle and rinse it regularly, especially the undercarriage.
Winter Maintenance Tips for Buick Vehicles
Buick vehicles combine luxury with practicality, making them excellent for winter driving when properly maintained.
- Upgrade to Buick’s Winter Accessories
Consider adding Buick winter floor mats or splash guards to protect the interior and exterior of your car from snow, ice, and salt damage. - Test Your Remote Start System
Many Buick models come with a remote start feature, which is perfect for warming up your car before you drive. Check that this system works properly and use it to your advantage during freezing mornings. - Maintain Optimal Engine Performance
Ensure your Buick’s Engine is in tip-top shape by scheduling an oil change with winter-grade oil if needed. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific recommendations for your model. - Check the Safety Systems
Buick models are equipped with advanced safety features like lane-keeping assist and forward-collision alerts. Make sure these systems are calibrated correctly, as snow and ice can affect their performance.
Hear From a Professional
We sat down with our service manager, Pablo Valladares, and asked him a few questions about winter car maintenance.
What is one main tip you would give to somebody who is trying to prepare their car for the winter?
“Perform a coolant inspection. Make sure the coolant levels are full. Make sure they don’t need to be changed out. All coolant has a mile limit or change date.”
Why is it important to prepare your car for the winter?
“Making sure there isn’t anything that can be addressed before it becomes a problem. Whether it’s just a small leak that needs to be repaired are something more extreme. Being stuck anywhere in the winter can be very dangerous.”
Any last things to add that a customer may want to know?
“Batteries are put to the test when cold. You may not have any issues during the warmer months but if it’s not strong enough for the winter then it could leave you stranded. Make sure to test the health of your battery.”
Winter driving can be challenging, but with proper maintenance, your vehicle can handle it with ease. From checking your tires to ensuring your heating system is up to par, these tips will help keep you safe and comfortable on the road. Whether you drive a GMC, Buick, or another vehicle, taking the time to prepare for winter can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.
If you’re ready to winterize your vehicle, visit your local Speck dealership and out trusted service center. We will help ensure your car is ready for whatever winter throws your way!
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information presented. Any action you take based on the context of this blog is strictly at your own risk. Always consult a qualified professional or specialist for advice specific to your situation. We are not responsible for any losses or damages arising from the use of this blog or its content.
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