Radiator Repair near Chicago, IL

Chicago is chilling in the airnWinter is approaching very fast. You get yourself ready for cold weather with warm clothes like a winter jacket and boots, but is your car ready for the snow, ice and freezing temperatures that the winter season brings?nnThe snow and cold of winter can adversely affect many different parts of your car. Take some time before the cold weather sets in to make sure your vehicle can handle whatever Mother Nature throws at it. Follow these suggestions to get your car ready for winter driving.nnCheck the antifreezenMake sure your car’s antifreeze is at the proper level. If it is running low you run the risk of having the water in your radiator freeze, preventing it from cooling your engine. Your trusted mechanic can help ensure that you have the proper mix of antifreeze to protect your engine.nnInspect your tiresnInspecting your vehicle's tires ensures that they aren’t worn which could prevent them from effectively gripping the road. If the tread wear bars are showing, it’s time to replace your tires.nnTest the brakesnMake sure your vehicle's brakes are in working order. When driving in snow, ice, sleet or freezing rain, it is paramount that your brakes are up for the challenge of winter driving.nnHave the battery checkednCold temperatures can have a dramatic effect on your vehicle's battery. Have your mechanic test the battery to ensure that it’s ready for a long, cold winter.nnConsider snow tiresnIf you live an area that gets a large amount of snow and ice, you might consider switching to snow tires for better performance in inclement weather. Some tire centers offer off-season storage (for a fee) of the tires you aren’t using so you don’t have to find room in your garage for a set of tires.nnInspect the wipersnExamine your windshield wipers; look for signs of wear or damage like splitting. Change them immediately if they aren’t clearing your windshield effectively. You may consider switching to a winter wiper blade – they typically have a durable cover that helps prevent slush and snow from freezing joints.nnChange the wiper fluidnSwitch your windshield wiper fluid to a winter version that de-ices your windshield.nnTest the 4WDnIf you have four-wheel drive, it’s likely been many months since you’ve had to use it. Test it to make sure that it engages and disengages properly.