We’ve walked you through a number of recommendations for taking care of your BMW during winter, but as with any topic regarding a vehicle, it’s just as important to be aware of common misconceptions. Here are a few to watch out for.
Your Tires
One misconception that crops up here and there regarding tires is that you only need to have two winter tires installed. This is not the case, and it’s always recommended to get a full set, as differing traction between the front and rear of your vehicle can be risky. Another pitfall is the assumption that winter tires are only needed in particularly icy conditions or in environments outside of urban areas. The truth is that wet, low temperature weather calls for winter tires regardless of what part of Calgary you’re in, and whether it’s actively snowing or not!
Your Battery
If your BMW has had a breakdown or just needed some help getting started thanks to the cold, you may have gotten a friend or family member to jump-start your car. A common assumption at this point would be that your battery will be recharged in a matter of minutes. This isn’t true during any time of the year, but it’s particularly false during winter, given the difficulties that a battery can have in low temperatures. Depending on the age of your BMW and the batter itself, you’ll likely need to keep things running for much longer, and could even require a load test to make sure it can hold a healthy charge.
Steering, Braking, and Stability
Many BMW owners might be enthusiastic about the latest traction and stability control technology, or about the fact that their model has all-wheel drive. They may also assume that this makes for flawless safety. The reality is that these functions aren’t substitutes for smart driving and winter tires. The same goes for ABS. Your braking should be more careful and calculated this time of year. Meanwhile, if you think that slightly deflating your tires can offer better traction, think again! When in doubt, ask your local BMW certified technician to find out if a certain piece of winter advice checks out.
Our goal at Motorwerkes is to ensure that your BMW runs and looks great for as long as possible, no matter what the season. Whether it’s an essential repair or an exciting performance upgrade, we’ve got all your BMW needs covered. Get in touch by calling (403) 768-3168 today!