Oneonta winters have a way of finding every weak spot in your vehicle. Before the first real snowfall, here's what to check.
- Battery test: Cold weather puts extra strain on your battery. Have it tested before the first hard freeze, especially if starting has been sluggish.
- Winter tires and tire service: Check tread depth and uneven wear. AWD helps you get moving, but it doesn't shorten your stopping distance. Winter tires are worth considering for Upstate NY roads.
- Tire pressure: Cold air lowers tire pressure. Check when tires are cold and follow the PSI on your driver's door-jamb label, not the number printed on the tire.
- Wiper blades and Genuine Toyota Parts: Replace streaky blades and use washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures. Don't wait until the first slushy commute.
- Brake inspection: Have pads, rotors and other brake components checked. Road salt and moisture can take their toll.
- Oil changes and fluid service: Check your maintenance schedule, oil specifications and coolant freeze protection before temperatures drop.
- Cabin air filter and Genuine Toyota Parts: Restricted airflow can make your defroster less effective. If airflow seems weak, have the cabin filter checked.
- Heat, defrost and lights: Test your heater, front defroster, rear-window defogger and exterior lights. Replace any bulbs or parts that aren't doing their job.
- Cameras and sensors: Clear snow and ice from your windshield, cameras and parking sensors. Blocked sensors can interfere with driver-assistance features.
Driving a Toyota RAV4, Camry, Corolla, Tacoma, Tundra, Highlander, 4Runner, Sienna or Prius?
Your exact maintenance needs depend on the model, year and mileage. Toyota hybrids also have a conventional 12-volt battery that can need attention even when the hybrid system is working normally.
Get ahead of the cold.
- Schedule Service at Empire Toyota of Oneonta
- Check Current Service Specials
- Order Genuine Toyota Parts Online
Empire Toyota of Oneonta | 6281 NY-23, Oneonta, NY 13820 | (607) 433-0045
