Winter Maintenance You Can DIY

When it comes to winter driving, everything you do to keep your vehicle in top-notch condition matters. There’s a handful of little things you can do to keep your vehicle running smoothly, even when it’s cold. 

These simple and important maintenance things include:

• Check your windshield wipers and make sure they’re in good shape. If you see streaking – or you notice that water droplets aren’t clearing from your windshield – it’s time to replace your wipers. You can visually inspect the rubber on the blades, too. If they’re cracked or there’s bits of rubber missing, it’s time for a new set.
• Check your tires regularly. There shouldn’t be any cracking or fraying. Use a tire gauge to check your tire pressure and keep them inflated based on your vehicle recommendations (this is found on a sticker on the frame where your driver’s side door closes).  Check your treads using the penny test, and if you can see Lincoln’s head, you need new tires asap! 
• Keep your gas tank full. In bad weather, it may take longer to get where you're going, and you want to make it all the way there. Plus, you don't want gas to freeze in the line!
• Check all your exterior lights. Having a headlight, brake light, or blinker out could mean you’re harder to see on the road, which could cause issues. 

As always, prevention is easier than fixing a major issue after it occurs. Taking care of the little things and scheduling regular maintenance for your vehicle will keep you happily rolling along even when it’s chilly. 

Learn more about the basics of winter maintenance for your Asian or European vehicle here.

Schedule Winter Maintenance on Your Asian or European Vehicle Today!

We’d love to be your go-to repair shop to help ensure you and your family are safe. Bring your vehicle to ArborMotion and we’ll have it running in tip-top shape in no time! At ArborMotion, we care about your safety! No question is too big or small. Call ArborMotion for domestic and European auto repair at 734-761-1088  to schedule your appointment today!  

Is Your Battery Still Good?

When was the last time you replaced the battery in your car? Is it going to keep you rolling through the rest of the winter and beyond?

Vehicle Batteries Last for About Four Years

We ask a lot of our batteries, and when they give out, we’re stuck. Regardless of your vehicle, you have at least one battery (or more!) that you depend on to get you where you’re headed. Extreme temperatures can cause the chemicals in your battery to evaporate or separate, which decreases the lifespan of the battery. Shorter trips, lots of starting of the engine (this is when the battery draw is most significant), and long periods without being used and recharged by the alternator, all shorten your battery’s lifespan. 

Signs It’s Time for a New Battery

If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to start shopping for a new battery: 

• You realize it’s been at least four years since you replaced the battery
• Corrosion on the terminals
• Staining anywhere on the battery box, indicating a potential leak
• Longer than “normal” start times in the winter
• Issues with the sound system
• Dimming headlights
• Sluggish engine cranking

Your battery is the linchpin that gets your vehicle started day after day. If you aren’t sure how long you’ve had your battery, or how much longer it will last, you can always schedule a battery load test and we can give you a good idea of your battery health!

Learn more about the basics of winter maintenance for your Asian or European vehicle here.

Schedule Winter Maintenacne on Your Asian or European Vehicle Today!

We’d love to be your go-to repair shop to help ensure you and your family are safe. Bring your vehicle to ArborMotion and we’ll have it running in tip-top shape in no time! At ArborMotion, we care about your safety! No question is too big or small. Call ArborMotion for domestic and European auto repair at 734-761-1088  to schedule your appointment today!