So, you, as a resident of Abbotsford, Canada, own a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter for your business. And with the weather getting colder and colder, it is obvious that winter will be here in a matter of weeks. Thus, you worry that your van might not be protected from the extremes of the cold, as it can adversely affect its performance. Ultimately, though, by following a few tips, you can keep your Sprinter for a long time, while surviving one winter after the other. Here’s how you can keep your van running in the winter:
Evaluate the Car Battery
The colder it is, the harder the Sprinter’s battery has to work to store the power that the engine requires to start the vehicle. Thus, it is easier for the battery to lose its charge and die. To keep the battery working at its optimal level, check it for any defects, most of all corrosion. Rust tends to accumulate around the terminals, which can be cleaned by using a toothbrush and a mixture of baking soda and water. Also note the age of the battery; most automotive experts suggest replacement at four or five years.
Evaluate the Engine
Also working harder in the wintertime is the engine, which, depending on what model you have, is a turbo or supercharged machine that possesses four or six cylinders. The cold further amplifies its problems, which can include pings, rough idling, and hard starts. And the older the engine, the more obvious those flaws are. To avoid such problems from manifesting—or worse, leading into a complete breakdown—take your Sprinter to your local Abbotsford mechanic, who should be able to perform an engine tune-up. Preferably, do this as soon as possible—before winter arrives. Also, to warm up the van, turn on the ignition and let it run for a few minutes.
Maintain the Coolant System
Although not as crucial as the two aforementioned components, the Sprinter’s antifreeze can generate a weak electrical current over time. And that can cause oxidation, which eventually leads to coolant system failure. So, just to be on the safe side, get a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water to ensure protection during days when the temperature dips well below zero.
Park the Sprinter In a Cool and Dry Place
Even though you can get the Sprinter warm by running the engine, you can’t keep it that way forever. So, when you haven’t turned on the ignition, let driven the van for a while, it’s best to keep the Sprinter in a cool and dry place—preferably, in the garage. That way, you keep the vehicle away from the extreme cold, and its hardware is duly preserved.
Collins Automotive
Family Owned Auto Shop, Serving Abbotsford, BC and surrounding area since 1993
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