As a Utah resident, you probably relish the falling snow and chillier temperatures. But while this winter weather means you can finally spend a day on the slopes, it also means you have an increased chance of experiencing winter road hazards. From icy roads to corrosive salt, the conditions you encounter can cause lasting damage to your vehicle if left unchecked.

Understanding these hazards and knowing how to mitigate them can help keep your vehicle in top shape throughout the colder months and beyond. In this blog, we’ll discuss some of the most common winter road hazards Utah drivers may experience to ensure you can protect your vehicle from avoidable damage. 

1. Road Salt and Corrosive De-Icers

Some of the most common winter road hazards include road salts and de-icers. These de-icing agents are essential for preventing ice buildup and keeping roads drivable. However, they can wreak havoc on your vehicle. Salt accelerates the rusting process, especially on your car’s undercarriage, exhaust system, brake line, and wheel wells. Prolonged exposure to salt can lead to significant rust damage, which can compromise the structural integrity of your vehicle. Brake lines, which are critical for vehicle safety, are especially vulnerable to this damage. 

How to Protect Your Car

• Wash your car regularly throughout winter, especially the undercarriage, to remove salt and de-icing chemicals. 
• Apply a protective wax or sealant before winter weather sets in. 
• Consider applying an undercarriage rust-proofing treatment.

2. Potholes

As winter progresses, it isn’t uncommon for Utah drivers to experience road hazards like potholes. They are especially common in the winter and early spring due to the freeze-thaw cycle. As water seeps into cracks in the road and freezes, it expands and causes the pavement to crack and break apart, leading to potholes. Hitting a pothole can damage your suspension, tires, wheels, and alignment. Severe pothole impacts may even lead to bent rims, punctured tires, or damaged shocks and struts.

How to Protect Your Car

• Keep your tires properly inflated to absorb potential impacts better. 
• Drive cautiously and avoid potholes whenever possible. 
• If you hit a pothole, check for unusual vibration, steering issues, or visible tire damage, and have your alignment checked if needed. 

3. Black Ice

One of the most dangerous road hazards Utah drivers may experience is black ice. Black ice is a nearly invisible layer that forms on road surfaces, particularly in shaded areas, bridges, and overpasses. It is one of the most dangerous hazards because of its unpredictability. Losing control on black ice can lead to collisions, which can damage body panels, wheels, and mechanical components. Even minor fender benders can lead to expensive repairs.

How to Protect Your Car

• Drive slowly and cautiously when temperatures are near or below freezing.
• Invest in winter tires for better traction on icy surfaces. 
• If you encounter black ice, avoid braking suddenly; instead, gently ease off the gas and steer in the direction you want to go.

4. Ice and Snow Buildup

Utah sees an average of 500 inches of snow every year. While we might not get quite that much snow in the valley, it is still one of the most significant road hazards drivers can encounter. When this snow and ice builds up on your car, it can create major driving problems. Excess buildup can obstruct wheel movement, damage wiper blades, and strain suspension components. Ice chunks that fall off your vehicle can also damage other cars or your paint if they strike the body. Additionally, snow and ice can limit driving visibility, creating even more risk on the road. 

How to Protect Your Car

• Check for snow and ice buildup before and after driving to remove it before it causes driving difficulties.
• Use a wiper fluid that is designed for below-freezing temperatures.
• Park in a garage or carport when possible to prevent snow and ice buildup overnight. 

5. Freezing Temperatures and Battery Failure

January is Utah’s coldest month, with temperatures across the Wasatch Front ranging from 19 to 36 degrees. This cold weather can impact the battery’s efficiency. If your battery is older or weak, winter weather can cause it to fail when needed. A dead battery can leave you stranded, and repeated failure to start can stress your vehicle’s electrical system. Cold weather can also cause thickening of engine oil, making it harder to start the engine.

How to Protect Your Car

• Ensure you have enough oil in your vehicle before winter weather arrives.
• Park in a garage or enclosed space to protect your battery.
• Get your battery tested at an auto repair shop and replace it if it performs poorly. 

6. Frozen Wiper Blades and Windshield Damage

In freezing temperatures, your wiper blades can stick to your windshield. Trying to use them when frozen can damage the blades or the motor. Ice and snow buildup can also lead to windshield cracks. Torn wiper blades reduce visibility or may damage the wiper motor, leading to costly repairs. Cracks in your windshield can spread, requiring replacement.

How to Protect Your Car

• While you might be tempted, keep your windshield wipers down during winter weather to avoid costly windshield arm replacements.
• Use a windshield cover or de-icer spray to clear ice.
• Replace worn-out wiper blades and repair windshield chips promptly.

Recover from Road Hazards at Paskett Auto

Winter road hazards are unavoidable, but with proper preparation and timely maintenance, you can reduce the risk of lasting damage to your vehicle. No matter what road hazards you encounter, our team at Paskett Auto is here to help you deal with it all. Since 1998, we’ve provided drivers across the Wasatch Front with the most reliable auto repairs. From minor body damage to major repairs, we can help you address it, ensuring your safety on the road again. 

If you’re dealing with damage to your vehicle as a result of winter road hazards, contact our Paskett Auto team today to schedule an inspection and repairs. 

When it comes to car repairs, knowing what you can handle yourself can save you time, money, and frustration. However, it isn’t always best to perform DIY car repairs. In some cases, while it may save you money, it is still best to rely on the professionals for support. Choosing to forego the support of professionals may cost you more in the long run. But what repairs can you make to your care, and what should you leave to the professionals? 

In this blog, we’ll discuss a few DIY car repairs you can make yourself and which ones are better left in the hands of the professionals. If you’re considering performing DIY car repairs, keep reading to see what our experts recommend. 

DIY Car Repair: Replacing Old Windshield Wipers

Replacing your windshield wipers is one of the simplest DIY car repairs and only requires a few minutes. You can purchase new wiper blades at a local auto parts store and follow the installation instructions on the packaging to ensure they are installed correctly. This easy fix can improve your visibility in bad weather and keep your car safe to drive. However, it is important that you purchase the appropriate wiper blades, as improperly sized blades may not reach across your windshield adequately, leaving you with minimal visibility when you need it most. 

Professional Car Repair: Brake System Repairs

While checking your brake pads and fluid levels is manageable, repairing or replacing elements like rotors, calipers, or the entire braking system is complex. The braking system is essential for your safety, and any repair errors could lead to dangerous driving conditions. Additionally, you will need a variety of tools to replace your brakes that you might not already have, making this a costly investment to make in your vehicle. Instead of attempting this on your own, this is one job best performed by professional mechanics with the right training and equipment.

DIY Car Repair: Changing Your Air Filter

Changing your car’s air filter is another simple DIY car repair you can perform. It often takes just a few minutes and can improve your car’s fuel efficiency and engine performance. Locate your air filter housing, remove the old filter, and replace it with a new one. Your vehicle’s manual will usually include step-by-step instructions to ensure you install this filter properly. If you aren’t sure which air filter is the right size for your car, the professionals at your local auto parts store should be able to help you find one that fits your vehicle.

Professional Repair: Engine Diagnostics and Repair

The engine is the heart of your vehicle, and diagnosing its problems requires specialized tools and expertise. While you might be tempted to troubleshoot issues using an OBD-II scanner, certified mechanics should interpret the results accurately and perform necessary repairs, such as replacing a timing belt or fixing valve issues. Incorrect repairs can lead to more damage and costlier repairs down the line. The most helpful thing you can do when you believe you’re experiencing an engine problem is to provide your mechanic with as much information as possible about the issue you’re experiencing to help them begin the diagnostic process. 

DIY Car Repair: Battery Replacement

Most car owners can handle replacing their car batteries. With just a few tools and basic safety precautions, you can swap out a dead or dying battery with a new one. Always ensure the car is turned off and disconnected from the electrical system before starting, and refer to your owner’s manual for specifics. If you choose to replace your car battery, it is important that you don’t throw it in the garbage. Instead, you should find a local recycling center to drop off your old battery to ensure your environment is safe from lead and battery acid contamination. 

Professional Car Repair: Transmission Issues

Transmission repairs are among the most complex and costly car repairs. Whether it’s an issue with slipping gears, strange noises, or delayed shifts, diagnosing and fixing transmission problems is best left to professionals who have specialized tools and in-depth knowledge. Attempting to repair it yourself could result in permanent damage or the need for a full replacement, which can be extremely expensive. If you want to avoid the unexpected cost of replacing your vehicle or causing irreparable damage to your car, it is best to schedule an appointment with your trusted automotive professionals. 

DIY Car Repair: Replacing Light Bulbs

Replacing headlights, tail lights, or interior lights is a manageable DIY car repair. Most light replacements involve accessing the bulb housing, removing the old bulb, and inserting the new one. This type of repair requires no special skills and can help you avoid tickets or unsafe driving conditions. While removing any bolts and locks that prevent you from reaching the lightbulb may take a bit of time, it is not too difficult to do in less than an hour. 

Professional Car Repair: Suspension Work

Your car’s suspension system ensures a smooth ride and helps maintain control of the vehicle. Diagnosing and repairing issues with shocks, struts, or suspension arms is complicated and requires specialized knowledge and tools. Errors during repairs could lead to uneven tire wear or impaired handling, making professional intervention crucial. If your vehicle feels a bit bouncy when going over bumps in the road, it is best to reach out to your trusted automotive professional to schedule repairs. 

Protect Your Car at Paskett Auto

Knowing the difference between a simple DIY car repair and a task that requires professional help is essential for maintaining your car’s safety and longevity. While replacing wiper blades, changing air filters, or replacing light bulbs are manageable for most car owners, complex systems like the engine, transmission, and suspension should be trusted by experienced mechanics.

If you need to schedule professional repairs for your vehicle in the Roy, Utah, area, turn to our team at Paskett Auto for support. For almost 30 years, our team has provided the most comprehensive car repairs to vehicles across the Wasatch Front. We’re equipped to handle everything from minor maintenance to major repairs.

When you need to schedule repairs for your vehicle, don’t hesitate to contact us for support. 

When it comes to choosing the right motor oil for your car, the options can be overwhelming. Synthetic oil and conventional oil each have benefits, but how do you decide which is best for your vehicle? While you might not think your oil choice matters that much, it can significantly impact your vehicle’s performance, making it essential to choose the right product. 

If you’re preparing for an oil change and want to learn more about the difference between the two, keep reading. 

What is Synthetic Oil?

Synthetic oil is a man-made lubricant with fewer impurities than its conventional counterpart. It is designed with a more consistent molecular structure, which helps it perform better in extreme temperatures and under heavy loads. Synthetic oil typically contains additives to enhance its properties, including reducing friction, preventing sludge build-up, and protecting your engine from wear and tear. 

The Benefits of Synthetic Oil

Since its introduction in 1996, synthetic oil has become increasingly popular among car manufacturers. This is because of the many benefits of using synthetic oil in vehicles, including the following:

• Better performance in high and low temperatures
• Longer intervals between oil changes
• Improved fuel efficiency
• Reduced engine wear and cleaner operation 

What is Conventional Oil? 

Conventional oil, also known as mineral oil, is derived from crude oil and has been used in vehicles for decades. This oil undergoes a refining process to remove impurities, but it doesn’t have the enhanced features that synthetic oil offers. While it may not be as advanced as synthetic, it is still effective at lubricating and protecting your engine, especially in standard driving conditions.

The Benefits of Conventional Oil

Conventional oil has been used in vehicles since the late 19th century and was the premier engine lubricant in the earliest vehicles, including steam engines. Some of the benefits of using this oil in vehicles include the following: 

• More affordable than its synthetic counterparts
• Effective for older engines or low-mileage vehicles
• Works well in average driving conditions

How Do You Know Which Oil Your Car Uses? 

The easiest way to find out what type of oil your car requires is to check the owner’s manual. The manufacturer will specify whether your vehicle needs synthetic, conventional, or a blend of both. If you don’t have access to the manual, you can also check the oil cap under the hood or look up your car’s make and model online.

Other factors that might determine your car’s oil needs include:

• Age of the Vehicle: Older engines may benefit more from conventional oil, while modern engines often run better on synthetic oil.
• Driving Habits: If you frequently drive in extreme temperatures or heavy traffic, synthetic oil may be the better choice. Conventional oil can suffice for those with a more predictable commute and drive under normal conditions.
• Manufacturer’s Recommendations: Some car manufacturers specifically design their engines to work with synthetic oil for better performance. Using the recommended oil can help maintain your car’s warranty and ensure optimal engine health.

Does It Matter Which Oil You Use? 

While you may not realize it, the oil you use in your car has a major impact on its performance. Here’s why: 

Performance and Protection:

Synthetic products provide superior protection, especially when driving in extreme heat or cold. Its enhanced lubricating properties mean your engine runs smoother, quieter, and more efficiently. Conventional oil might not offer the same level of protection, especially if you’re dealing with high engine temperatures.

Longevity and Cost:

While synthetic is more expensive, it lasts longer than conventional oil. This means fewer oil changes, which can save you time and money in the long run. If you have a newer car or drive long distances regularly, synthetic oil can be a more cost-effective option. On the other hand, if you drive an older car with a lower mileage rate, conventional oil may be all you need.

Engine Requirements:

Using the wrong type of oil can lead to engine issues. If your car is designed to use synthetic, switching to conventional could cause problems. Similarly, switching from conventional to synthetic can sometimes cause leaks in older engines. It’s essential to follow your vehicle’s manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid damage.

Synthetic Blend–Finding Middle Ground

For drivers who want some of the benefits of synthetic oil without the full price, synthetic blend oils are also available. These are mixtures of synthetic and conventional oils, offering some performance advantages at a lower cost.

Oil Changes and More in Roy, Utah

Choosing between synthetic and conventional oil depends on various factors, including your driving habits, the age of your car, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. While synthetic oil offers better performance, efficiency, and engine protection, conventional oil remains a reliable, budget-friendly option for many drivers. Always check your vehicle’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends, and consider your driving style and environment before deciding.

Keeping your engine running smoothly is crucial, and using the right oil is essential to vehicle maintenance. If you’re still unsure, consult a trusted mechanic, like our team at Paskett Auto, who can help you determine the best oil for your car. With years of experience helping vehicle owners across the Wasatch Front care for their vehicles, we’re confident we can do the same for you.

If you would like to schedule an oil change with our team or have any questions about our services, reach out to us today.