How to Prepare a Hyundai for Winter in New York

As fall weather sweeps New York, vehicles will be put to the test. Freezing temps and inclement weather can lead to breakdowns, accidents, and costly repairs. There are 7 easy things drivers can do before winter to prepare their Hyundai vehicle. 

 

1. Check Tires

 

Worn out tires can lead to dangerous driving conditions. Poor tire traction increases stopping distance and decreases stability on slick roads. To check the tread depth, drivers can use a tire tread depth gauge or do the penny test to determine if it is time to replace their tires. 

 

Drivers should be sure to check their tire tread depth once or twice and regularly check tire pressure throughout the colder season. A trusted service technician at a Hyundai dealer Long Island, Queens or New York can quickly inspect tires.

 

2. Switch to Winter Tires

 

Even drivers with quality all-season tires may want to make the switch to snow/winter tires when the weather turns. Winter tires provide much more traction on snow and ice than regular tires. 

 

3. Test the Car Battery

 

Drivers should test out their car batteries before wintertime to ensure there is no corrosion on the terminals. A Hyundai service technician can inspect the battery and replace it before winter if necessary.

 

4. Check Fluids 

 

Some of the automotive fluids that need extra attention during the colder seasons include:

Engine oil

Engine coolant

Wiper fluid

Transmission fluid

Power steering fluid

Brake fluid

 

Drivers should keep these fluids topped off throughout winter and be sure to schedule an oil change at a New York Hyundai dealer in the Queens, Long Island, or Farmingdale area.

 

5. Inspect Brakes

 

Brakes undergo more strain during colder months, and experts recommend drivers check their brake systems at least once during the winter. Keeping brakes in top condition will come in handy as drivers face the slush, snow, and ice to come.

 

6. Replace the Cabin Air Filter

 

Drivers will often constantly use their car’s heater throughout the cooler months. If the cabin air filter is clogged, airflow will be reduced and may lead to an overheated blower motor resistor. It is a good idea to get the filter replaced before winter to avoid a costly replacement and keep the vehicle nice and toasty all season long.  

 

7. Assemble a Winter Survival Kit

 

Blizzards often sweep through New York leaving drivers stranded. It is essential to keep a winter survival box or kit in a vehicle at all times. Some important items to pack in any winter survival kit include:

• Jumper cables

• Ice scraper and brush

• Shovel

• Flashlight

• First aid kit

• Cell phone charger

• Blanket and warm clothes

• Water and non-perishable food

• Compass and road maps

• Necessary medications

• Signaling cones

• Sand, road salt, or kitty litter

• Road flares

• Emergency toolkit

• Tire chains if a car does not have snow tires

• Tow rope

• Tire repair kit

• Waterproof matches and candles

 

For assistance with any of these maintenance and service recommendations, or to find important winter parts for sale, search for Hyundai new and used car dealers in Farmingdale and get in touch with the service department.