The cold temperatures are upon us. Many parts of the country are already enduring rain, snow and other stormy conditions—and thermometers in multiple regions across the U.S. are now regularly hitting below-freezing levels. Some parts of the country—like Maine—are even experiencing sub-zero climate, as the last month of 2021 kicks in.
Every time the first strong storm of the season descends on the Pacific Northwest, Mountain region, Midwest and Northeast—and even parts of the Southwest and Southern states—it’s a wake-up call to anyone who lives in inclement weather to review their home and vehicle winterizing checklist. Is the house ready—with leaks fixed, windows insulated, and heating systems in top condition? Are swimming pools prepped and ready to lay dormant throughout the cold months? Are barns secured, and outdoor livestock and other resources protected? And equally important—are the wheels you depend on daily for work or pleasure ready to withstand the unexpected, perhaps even brutal, temperature cold swings?
After all, a vehicle that isn’t properly cared for come winter when the frigid temperatures set in can create serious headaches and extra expense for owners. They can also suffer from unnecessary wear-and-tear that can quickly undermine ROI and vehicle value. Weather-related issues can range from exterior surface damage (when vehicles are left unprotected) to mechanical failure. Owners who don’t winterize may, surprisingly, begin their day only to find a car that doesn’t start.
It’s critical to get a fresh vehicle service job prior to the season kicking in. Common winter weather “blues” for car, truck and van owners who don’t winterize can include any of the following:
- Vehicle stalls out
- Drivers gets stranded in compromised, or even dangerous, weather
- Weakened battery goes bad
- Gas line freezes from too low of a tank supply
- Damaged windshield wipers result in poor visibility/driving hazards
- Icy, cold temperature wreak havoc on the vehicle paint job
- Rocks and ice on the road damage exterior surfaces
- Cargo slides around in wet/icy truck beds causing potential injury
These are just a few of the hazards that winter weather drivers need to heed. In terms of the physical toll that harsh temperatures can doll out, a vehicle’s surface can quickly denigrate depending on the severity of the weather and type of paint job the car or truck has. This is where Bullet Liner technology can help! Bullet Liner protective coating places a heavy-duty, elastomer sealant onto vehicle exteriors—covering everything from the overall surface finish to specific areas such as fenders, bumpers, wheel wells, running boards, and more. Our high-tensile strength bedliner literally coats and protects against damage from temperature extremes (the freezing cold, but also blistering hot sun in the summer months)—and it won’t crack, fade, bubble or peel regardless of how severe the climate is. Also, Bullet Liner helps to guard against dents, dings and abrasion from flying ice, rocks, caked snow and other road debris typically found on highways and roads during the coldest parts of the year.
There is simply no reason to sacrifice your prized vehicle’s exterior finish, or durability, due to the winter weather. Additionally, for drivers who rely on their vehicle for occupational purposes, Bullet Liner offers a “no-slip” better grip coating that will keep items in a pick-up truck bed from sliding in ice or rain—making it easier for workers to load and unload cargo more safely.
Other quick car care items to keep on the radar in the wintertime:
- Check your coolant
- Use a thinner engine oil that will fare better in uber cold temperatures
- Get your snow tires in gear
- Check tire tread depth/ensure pressure is at the correct PSI
- Monitor your battery level
- Don’t forget a lock de-icer
Even if caring for your ride slipped off your autumn “to do list,” it’s not too late to get your wheels primed for winter season. Bullet Liner spray-on polyurea coating can be quickly applied by a professional applicator in your area—and a complimentary extra coat of protection also makes for a sweet gift idea for a family member or loved one this holiday season. For more information, please locate a Bullet Liner dealer here.