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BY COLBY FARR
How to prepare your car for the winter in Dallas-Fort Worth
Some automotive parts retailers, such as Autozone and Advance Auto Parts, can scan a vehicle’s “check engine” light and identify the issue free of charge. Drivers should also check their tires, windshield wipers and headlights. “The longer you wait to properly maintain your vehicle, the more likely the repairs will cost you more money,” he said in an email. “A worn vehicle is only going to become more worn and it may start affecting another system within the vehicle.” Drivers can inspect their tires for worn treads using a penny as a gauge, Moffa said. Place a penny upside down within the tire’s tread, and if it doesn’t reach President Abraham Lincoln’s head, the tire should be replaced. Next steps Some automotive repair shops can perform a “winterization” inspection of a vehicle, Moffa said. Individual components, such as windshield wipers and car batteries, can be purchased from auto
As the 2024-25 winter season approaches the Dallas-Fort Worth area, some car owners may be thinking about ensuring their vehicles are pre- pared for the colder weather. The gist Several vehicle components, such as windshield wipers and tire tread, can be affected by colder weather, said Anthony Moffa, air quality planner at the North Central Texas Council of Governments. Moffa is part of a team that manages the NCTCOG’s Car Care Awareness program. The program aims to spread awareness about proper car maintenance throughout the year and offers tips on car care at www.nctcog.org. Check it out Drivers should ensure they don’t have any warn- ing lights on their dashboard, such as the “check engine” light, when preparing to drive during cold weather, Moffa said.
Top tips Anthony Moffa said vehicle systems should be checked to ensure they are working properly and in good condition prior to cold weather, including:
Vehicle batteries: Colder weather can cause a weak battery to fail sooner, and the car won't reliably start. Coolant levels : If it's low, it may cause a vehicle's heater to not work properly and can affect the window defrost function. Headlights : Check that they are working properly, including the bright lights setting, to maintain visibility during freezes.
SOURCE: NORTH CENTRAL TEXAS COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS/COMMUNITY IMPACT
parts stores as well. “Be sure to make these preparations before colder or extreme weather arrives,” Moffa said.
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