We're headed into the colder months here in Central New York. That means it's time to get your Mitsubishi vehicle ready for Upstate weather. If you're wondering what a typical maintenance schedule calls for doing before temperatures drop and the snow flies, our Cicero Mitsubishi dealer has a few recommendations.
Test Your Battery
Over time, car batteries lose capacity, especially in the kind of cold weather we see in Utica, NY. They can also stop conducting electricity, and eventually, they simply wear out and stop charging. Causes of battery failure extend far beyond frigid temps; lead sulfate can build up in them, and their electrolytes can evaporate, plates can warp, connections can loosen, and terminals can corrode.
We recommend battery inspection now to avoid failure after the first frost. Test it with a multimeter to ensure it's outputting the correct voltage, and check its terminals to ensure they're clean, rust-free, and conductive. What's more, ensure that it's secure against damaging impacts and vibrations. Whether your battery needs service or replacement, our service department can help.
Inspect Your Tires
There's practically nothing worse than a breakdown outside of Watertown, NY, owing to a tire that's gone flat from fall's chill, reducing pressure and causing a burst. You can avoid that by checking the tread depth and pressure (measured in pounds per square inch, or psi) of all tires, including the spare, to ensure they're adequate for traveling in the cold. As winter approaches, be sure to inspect them weekly.
We're all familiar with how much trouble conditions off Lake Ontario can be, too, so it's a good idea to consider putting snow tires on your vehicle, also. Their deep treads optimize traction when the roads and trails up in the North Country get especially slippery.
Service Your Brakes
Put off regular service for your Mitsubishi brakes, and the car or SUV you love can end up on the side of the road in Liverpool, NY, waiting for a tow. Even worse, it can mean a serious accident. So, make sure the system is in top shape.
First, look for any signs they're failing — things like brake warning lights on the dashboard, plus shuddering, grinding, or pulling sideways when braking. You may also notice brake pressure and pedal problems. See buildup or corrosion around seals, fluid leaks, or hear squealing, and there's a good chance the brake calipers need maintenance. Feel vibrating when braking, on the other hand, or notice that it's taking longer to slow down and stop, and the brake pads have likely worn out and need replacement. Bad brake rotors, however, you'll know from obvious warping and damage.
Schedule Seasonal Service Today at Our Mitsubishi Dealership in Cicero, NY
There's plenty else to take care of, also, including inspecting your vehicle's heater and defroster, replacing its wiper blades, checking its lighting, and getting an oil change. Burdick Mitsubishi is home to a team of certified Mitsubishi technicians with access to the latest proprietary tools, technologies, and OEM parts. We'll be happy to put our expertise and years of auto maintenance experience to work to help bring your vehicle up to speed for fall and winter. Schedule a service appointment online now, then stop in for a visit. Located on Circle Drive East in Cicero, just north of Hancock International Airport, we're easy to reach from anywhere in the greater Syracuse area. We look forward to meeting you.