My car was bought and has survived in Florida for the first 5 years of its life without any serious issues. I recently moved to Michigan and I know that owning a car where it frequently stays below freezing is much different, but I need to know what exactly to expect. I'm not looking forward to driving in snow and ice, I'm worried the whole car will start to rust and I'm hoping the various fluids won't freeze.
So far, I have already checked and replaced the windsheild washer fluid with de-icing fluid, installed new wipers, and made sure the oil is a sufficient blend to survive the winter without freezing solid.
However, I was dismayed to discover that the shop I took my car to in 2008 to have the coolant flushed (and paid $200 for the pleasure) only filled it with water, so I have to get that changed out quick fast and in a hurry.
This morning, my car refused to start (38 degrees according to the thermometer in the garage, but 32 outside) even though it started up no issue the night previous. It would turn, but would not fire. Repeated pumping of the accelerator while attempting to start finally got it revving.
I plan on replacing the spark wires and apparently I need to change the fuel filter, as well. Sparks were changed at 32,000 with iridium plugs so they should be good till 90k or so. Fuel filter is original.
Car has 69k on it right now and I drive about 3000 miles a month.
So, besides the items outlined above, how else can I prepare for this first Michigan winter?
So far, I have already checked and replaced the windsheild washer fluid with de-icing fluid, installed new wipers, and made sure the oil is a sufficient blend to survive the winter without freezing solid.
However, I was dismayed to discover that the shop I took my car to in 2008 to have the coolant flushed (and paid $200 for the pleasure) only filled it with water, so I have to get that changed out quick fast and in a hurry.
This morning, my car refused to start (38 degrees according to the thermometer in the garage, but 32 outside) even though it started up no issue the night previous. It would turn, but would not fire. Repeated pumping of the accelerator while attempting to start finally got it revving.
I plan on replacing the spark wires and apparently I need to change the fuel filter, as well. Sparks were changed at 32,000 with iridium plugs so they should be good till 90k or so. Fuel filter is original.
Car has 69k on it right now and I drive about 3000 miles a month.
So, besides the items outlined above, how else can I prepare for this first Michigan winter?