Here at {$DEALERNAME}, we know that it can be tough maintaining your Volkswagen in Edmontons cold weather. Cold garage floors, or worse yet snow covered driveways, are about as inviting as those -30 days in January. But with a little bit of work and foresight, you can winterize your Volkswagen and keep it running smoothly right into the road trip worthy spring and summer days. So read on for a few tricks and tips to make sure you take the proper care of your investment.
Another important step in maintaining your Volkswagen in Edmontons cold weather is making sure youre riding the right rubber. Winter tires are not a gimmick meant to sell more tires no matter what your uncle Steve says. Winter tires are made up of different chemical compounds than summer or all season tires, and can handle lower temperatures before they freeze and lose the elasticity that helps them grip the road. In addition to making sure you are using winter tires, check their pressure. Every time the temperature drops about 12, your tires will lose a pound of pressure. Considering the wild swings in temperature we are subject to in Alberta, your tires can lose a lot of pressure in a hurry. And the idea of getting better traction on an under-inflated tire is a bit of a myth the idea of softer tires being able to cover more surface area only works if the surface is soft aw well. Since most of your winter driving will be done on hard-packed snow, ice, or cleared road, this information falls flat. Finally, we know all this talk about tires is starting to run a little thin, but when you fill up your tires make sure you put the valve cap back on your tire after you fill it (or replace any cracked or missing valve caps), because if moisture gets inside the tire and freezes the valve core of your tire is at risk of cracking.
Wiper blades are another part of your car that can easily be neglected. Did you know that wiper blades only have a life expectancy of about 6 months to a year. With regular cleaning you can stretch it a little bit, but most wiper blades are inexpensive and easy to replace, so do yourself a favour and replace them. Modern, beam blade style wipers dont have an external spring, making them better for winter. Try not to leave your wipers on when you turn your car off, as when you start it up it causes undue stress on the vehicle and the blades. Its also good practice to pop your wiper blades up if you are parking outside for an extended period of time, making it easier to scrape away any snow or ice and keep the blades from freezing to the windshield. And if you dont own a good scraper or brush, get one immediately. Theyre cheap, readily available, and are of the utmost importance when it comes to cleaning your windows (and being able to see the road).
There are a few more tips for maintaining your Volkswagen in Edmontons cold weather and making your commute both safer and more bearable, like packing a winter survival kit. Now this kit can contain anything that helps you pass the time should you be stuck on the side of the road, so your favourite novel isnt out of the question, but there are a few things you will definitely want to pack in case of emergency, including but not limited to: a whistle, a plastic bag, a plumbers candle and lighter, a single-edged razor blade, snacks, a flashlight, and an extra battery or charging source for your phone. Youll also want to pack a space blanket (also known as an emergency blanket) within reach of the vehicles driver. In case you are stuck in your vehicle upside down on the side of the road, the best packed emergency kit in the trunk of your vehicle will be of no help.
These are just some tips for maintaining your Volkswagen in Edmontons cold weather climate, but for more information come visit us at {$DEALERNAME} and talk to any member of our experienced sales staff. And remember, all of the preparation will do you no good if you arent safe so drive slow and steady, and stay alert and in control while driving during the winter months.
