The snow has finally stopped falling in Western Mass, and while the Pioneer Valley looks like a winter wonderland, your Chevy might be feeling the brunt of that blizzard. Between the heavy snow loads and the aggressive road salt used on I-91 and Riverdale St, your vehicle needs some immediate TLC to prevent long-term damage.
At Central Chevrolet, we want to make sure your truck or SUV stays in peak condition. Here is your post-storm recovery checklist to get back on the road safely.
1. Clear the “Snow Roof” (It’s the Law!)
Before you even turn the key, clear every inch of snow off your vehicle. In Massachusetts, driving with a “snow roof” isn’t just dangerous—it’s illegal.
- The Danger: Snow sliding off your roof can blind the driver behind you or slide down your own windshield during a sudden stop.
- Pro Tip: Use a foam snow broom rather than a plastic shovel to avoid scratching your paint or catching the weather stripping.
2. Check Your Intake and Exhaust
This is a critical safety step. If you drifted into a snowbank or the plow piled snow against your parked car, your exhaust pipe could be clogged. A blocked exhaust can cause carbon monoxide to leak into the cabin while the engine is idling.
- Action: Ensure the tailpipe and the front grille (where your engine pulls in air) are completely clear before starting the engine.
3. The “Underbody” Wash is Mandatory
The salt and brine used by West Springfield DPW are your car’s worst enemies. These chemicals are highly corrosive to your brake lines, suspension, and frame.
- The Fix: As soon as the roads are clear enough to drive, head to a car wash that offers an undercarriage spray. Rinsing that salt off immediately can add years to your Chevy’s lifespan.
4. Lift Your Wipers and Check the Seals
If you didn’t pull your wipers up before the storm, they might be frozen to the glass.
- Don’t: Force the wiper motor to move if they are stuck; you could burn out the motor or tear the rubber blades.
- Do: Use your defroster and a de-icer spray to gently free them. While you’re at it, check your washer fluid levels—you’ll be using a lot of it to clear the salty “road spray” over the next few days.
5. Inspect Your Tires and Sensors
Extreme cold causes tire pressure to drop (the “TPMS” light is a common post-blizzard guest). Additionally, modern Chevys are packed with safety sensors for parking and lane assist.
- Clean the Tech: Wipe down your backup camera and the sensors located in your bumpers. If they are covered in ice or salt, your safety features may malfunction or beep incessantly.
Need a post-winter health check? The salt and potholes of a New England winter are tough on alignments and brakes. Schedule a multi-point inspection with the Central Chevrolet Service Center today to ensure your vehicle is ready for the rest of the season.
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