GMC Winter Prep: Ensuring Your Vehicle Is Ready for the Cold

Cold winters put additional demands on various systems, but these can be reduced by preparing for them. As your GMC dealer, we want to advise you on a few types of GMC maintenance that will help your vehicle perform easier and more efficiently in the cold days ahead.

From Your GMC Dealer: GMC Maintenance To Prepare You for Winter

Battery Check

The battery is one of your vehicle’s most important systems, as without it, you could be stuck looking for a jump-start. The battery provides the electrical charge that powers the crank, allowing the combustion process to start. They have a working life of three to five years on average, but as a battery ages, its electricity storage capacity drops causing, it to weaken and eventually fail.

Low temperatures cause the battery’s electrolyte solution to partially solidify. This reduces its power by 20% or more, which can cause an old battery to fail. We’ll test your battery by hooking it up to our computerized battery tester. This machine gives a clear indication of the battery’s remaining strength. If your battery is weak, we can quickly install a new one to ensure your engine starts easily.

Oil Change

Engine oil is the lifeblood of your engine. It’s pumped through your engine by the oil pump and lubricates countless components. This lubrication protects them against friction damage, reducing wear and tear on your engine. It contains various additives that break down deposits to keep your engine clean and prevent rust from forming.

Oil accumulates dirt and other debris as it moves through the engine, causing older oil to move more slowly. This reduces its efficiency, leading to an increase in worn components. Low temperatures worsen this situation as they cause the oil to thicken even further. Our technicians will fix this problem by draining your oil, replacing the oil filter to improve oil flow, and then refilling your engine with fresh oil.

Tire Checks

Your tires experience wear and tear daily as minute pieces of rubber break off due to surface friction. As the tread wears down, it grips the surface less securely, increasing the stopping distance when you hit the brakes. The rubber in older tires gradually loses its flexibility, and this can cause racks to form on the surface. As time passes, these cracks reach deeper into the tire and can cause a leak.

Low tread makes gripping snowy or icy surfaces more difficult and your car could slide. We’ll examine your tires and replace them if they’re worn. New tires will provide a more secure grip on the surface and ensure you can drive safely.

Book your winter maintenance by contacting our service department today at Hart Motors GMC in Salem, VA.

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