Winter without troubles: the used parts worth checking (and those to replace) before the cold hits
Cold weather exposes a vehicle’s weak points: battery, starter motor, alternator, lighting, and demisting systems. Well‑chosen used parts can lower the bill while maintaining safety.
Cold‑weather and visibility checklist
- Starting/charging: load‑test the battery, check alternator voltage, ensure clean earth points.
- Lighting: headlamps must be watertight and clear, with accurate beam alignment and working washers.
- Seeing and being seen: a strong blower, heater free from coolant smell, new wiper blades, heated rear window and mirrors working properly.
- Suspension/braking: no play in joints, healthy brake hoses, balanced braking performance.
- Seals/locks: silicone for rubber seals, lubricant for locks, and clear door drainage channels.
What to buy used vs what to buy new
Used: complete watertight headlamp units, tested alternators/starters, heater blower motors, mirror housings. New: battery, wiper blades, fluids, brake pads/discs, rubber hoses.
Anti‑freeze tips
Keep the tank at least half full, protect rubber seals, clean electrical contacts, and run key systems briefly after long periods of standing still.
A car prepared for winter uses less fuel, lights the road better and brakes more predictably. Global Parts offers the right used components to build a winter‑ready kit for the most common models.
