With winter on the way, now is the time to make sure your Hyundai vehicle is prepared to handle the colder temperatures and harsher driving conditions. Seasonal car maintenance is important to keep your vehicle running smoothly, safely and efficiently all winter long - especially in Maryland where temperatures often dip below freezing. Luckily, the experienced technicians at the Jones Bel Air Hyundai service center in Bel Air, MD can help get your car in top shape for the winter months ahead.
Winter Car Battery Care
Cold temperatures can be tough on your car's battery. The chemical reactions that generate power slow down in the cold, so your battery has to work harder to turn the engine over. That's why it's a good idea to have your battery tested before winter hits. The technicians at Jones Bel Air Hyundai can check your battery's voltage and cold cranking amps to make sure it has enough power to start reliably when the mercury drops in Baltimore.
Winter Brake Service
Your vehicle's brakes are its most important safety feature - and they need to be in top condition to provide reliable stopping performance on icy, snow-covered roads. As part of your pre-winter maintenance, have your brakes inspected to check pad and rotor wear. If new pads or rotors are needed, the Hyundai service experts at Jones Bel Air can install genuine Hyundai brake components for like-new braking performance and feel.
Fluid Checks and Changes
Cold temperatures can affect the viscosity of vital fluids like oil, transmission fluid and coolant - which in turn can impact performance and efficiency. As part of your winter tune-up, have all fluids checked and topped off or changed as needed. It's also a good idea to keep an eye on fluid levels throughout the winter and top off as needed to make sure your Hyundai's various systems have the lubrication and protection they need.
If you're due for an oil change, consider switching to a lower-viscosity oil that will flow more readily when cold. The expert technicians at Jones Bel Air Hyundai can recommend the ideal oil for your Hyundai based on its age, mileage and your driving habits in the Bel Air area.
Tire Care for Winter Traction
Good tires are essential for safe winter driving. If your tires are worn, they won't be able to bite into snow and slush for reliable traction and stopping power. Consider installing a set of snow tires for the winter months - their special tread compound stays pliable in the cold for improved grip. At minimum, make sure your all-season tires have adequate tread depth for winter driving in MD.
Proper tire inflation is also key for traction and even tread wear. Tires lose pressure in colder temperatures, so check your tires' inflation regularly and add air as needed to keep them at the recommended PSI. It's also a good idea to have your tires rotated before winter so they wear evenly, which will help maintain traction and extend tread life.
Winter Wiper Blades and Washer Fluid
Visibility is vital for winter driving safety. If your wiper blades are leaving streaks or missing portions of the windshield, replace them with a fresh set of winter blades. Winter wiper blades are made from a more pliable rubber that resists cracking and tearing in sub-freezing temperatures to maintain a clear windshield.
Be sure to fill your washer fluid reservoir with a winter-grade washer solvent that won't freeze. Ordinary washer fluid can turn slushy in cold temperatures, making it difficult to keep your windshield clean and clear.
Schedule Your Winter Tune-Up at Jones Bel Air Hyundai
Taking care of these key maintenance items will help your Hyundai handle anything that a Maryland winter can dish out. The Jones Bel Air Hyundai service department makes it easy and affordable to get your car ready for winter with service promotions and specials. We also offer convenient online scheduling and service financing options to make your winter car care as hassle-free as possible.
