GMC’s Winter Vehicle Prep: Essential Tips

It’s never too soon to prepare your vehicle for the elements! Winter weather can be harsh on vehicles, and preparing your GMC for the colder months is important if you want to be sure you’ll be safe, your vehicle will run reliably, and you’ll always get the performance you expect. It starts with proper GMC maintenance, and it ends with some things you need to do at home to really be ready for Old Man Winter.

Winter Vehicle Prep

GMC Maintenance at Your Dealer

The Battery

As temperatures drop, the chemical reactions that generate power in a battery slow down, reducing its efficiency and ability to hold a charge. Bring it to us, and we’ll let you know if it needs to be changed.

The Tires

You need to have the right ones, and they need to be in good shape. Ensure your tires have sufficient tread depth: 5/32 of an inch for better grip on snow and ice is perfect. Consider switching to winter tires, too, which are designed to perform better in cold temperatures and provide superior traction on snow and ice compared to all-season tires. We can help you source these and get them on for you.

The Fluids

Using the right types of fluids during winter is important as cold temperatures can affect their viscosity and performance. Most important, ensure you’re using the right engine oil. We’ll check all your fluids and make sure you’re set.

Things to Check at Home

The Heating System

Turn on the heater to ensure it’s working correctly. If it’s not producing enough heat, there might be an issue with the heater core or thermostat. Also, make sure the front and rear defrosters are functioning properly, and make sure the blower motor is producing sufficient airflow. If anything’s wrong, come see us.

Visibility

Your wiper blades should be in good condition to clear snow and ice effectively, and you may want to consider using winter wiper blades. Either way, make sure they’re working well.

Ensure that all your exterior lights, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals, are working correctly. If you have any burnt-out bulbs or the lenses are grimy, come see us right away.

Prepare an Emergency Kit

• Blankets and Warm Clothing
• Non-Perishable Food and Water
• First Aid Kit
• Flashlight and Batteries
• Snow Shovel and Ice Scraper
• Jumper Cables or Portable Jumper
• Tire Chains or Traction Mat

Ready for winter? Come see us at Dutch Miller’s Beckley Automall for more tips, maintenance, and anything else you need for winter.

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