Unexpected automotive issues are the worst, especially when problems arise in the middle of winter. As the owner of an Audi, you are probably already well aware of the high cost of ownership and do all that you can to keep your car in prime working condition. Any vehicle will require regular maintenance, equipment inspections and even occasional repairs, which are the keys to your car’s long life. And because each season brings different types of weather, plan on scheduling seasonal tune-ups. For example, it’s wintertime and outdoor temperatures are low in many parts of the country. Is your Audi in good shape to take on the cold?
Luckily for you, it’s not too late to perform a winter inspection on your Audi. In fact, checking the following items this cold season can help you avoid the need to bring your vehicle to an Audi repair shop in Conway, AR.
Check the battery
While cold weather is typically thought of as more of an issue for car tires and windows, it can also be a problem for your battery. Low temperatures block the battery from being able to produce enough amperage for your Audi to start up properly. And car batteries will naturally develop deposits on the inside and outside, which reduce their effectiveness; batteries that are more than five years old should be checked by a professional. Now that you are aware of the toll winter can take on automobile batteries, be sure to include this in your inspection checklist.
Check tire condition
When you check your tires this winter, remember to look at condition, air pressure and tire tread. With age, a car tire will begin to wear down, producing poor condition in the form of cracks, tears, ripped material and balding, all of which can put you in danger on the road and lead to costly repairs. This is why it’s important to perform a visual check for such damage, as well as for any foreign objects that may have punctured the tire; the object could be stuck deep enough to flatten a tire or create an even longer tear. Also, test the depth of your tires’ tread to ensure they are safe to drive on.
Check coolant system components
Although a strong plastic material is used in many manufactured Audi coolant system components—such as the radiator, expansion tank and thermostat—over time, plastic components will weaken due to heat exposure. They may crack when you are driving, which is generally unsafe and could also cause other damage to your vehicle. In addition, the system is made up of rubber hoses that will start to form soft spots or bubbles. Keep an eye on these as well.
Don’t worry if there are some things you’d prefer a professional to take a look at. Do what you can, then take your car to a trusted auto shop for a more thorough inspection. For the most knowledgeable and experienced Audi repair shop in Conway, AR, look no further than the skilled team of mechanics at Riverdale Automotive. Contact us anytime this winter for all of your Audi repair needs!