As temperatures drop and roads begin to frost over, your car faces a new set of challenges. Winter is tough on vehicles; without proper preparation, it could lead to breakdowns or even accidents. The good news? Getting your car ready for winter isn’t as complicated as you might think. A little attention now can save you a whole lot of hassle later.
Inspect and Replace Your Tires
Your tires are your first line of defense against slippery roads. If they’re worn out, you’re putting yourself at risk. Winter weather demands good tread depth to maintain traction on icy or wet surfaces. Not sure how to check? Grab a penny and insert it into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see his whole head, it’s time for new tires.
If your area experiences heavy snowfall, consider investing in winter tires. These are specially designed to grip icy roads better, giving you more control when conditions are less than ideal. Don’t forget to check the tire pressure, too. Cold weather causes air to contract, which means you might lose pressure overnight. Low tire pressure not only affects traction but also reduces fuel efficiency.
Check Your Battery Health
Winter weather can be brutal on your car’s battery. Cold temperatures slow down the chemical reactions inside, making it harder to deliver enough power to start your engine. If your battery is already weak, winter might push it over the edge.
How can you tell if your battery needs attention? Watch for warning signs like slow engine cranking or dim headlights. If your battery is more than three years old, it’s a good idea to have it tested before winter sets in. Many repair shops will check it for free or as part of a general inspection.
Inspect Your Fluids
Your car relies on several fluids to keep running, and winter can affect how it performs. Start by checking your antifreeze, which is critical for preventing your engine from freezing. Make sure the coolant is at the right level and properly mixed for cold weather.
Next, don’t forget about your windshield washer fluid. Regular fluid won’t cut it when temperatures plummet, as it can freeze on contact with your windshield. Switch to a winter-specific formula that won’t turn to ice when you need it most.
Lastly, take a look at your oil. Cold weather thickens oil, making it harder for your engine to circulate it efficiently. If your car uses conventional oil, you might want to switch to a thinner, winter-grade option recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
Examine Your Brakes
Your brakes are critical for staying safe, especially on icy or wet roads. While most people don’t think about their brakes until there’s a problem, winter is not the time to take chances. If you’ve noticed squealing, grinding, or reduced stopping power, get your brakes inspected right away.
Even if everything seems fine, it’s worth having a professional look at your braking system to ensure all components are in good shape. In winter, roads are unpredictable, and you’ll want your brakes to respond instantly when you need them most.
Prepare for Emergencies
No one expects to get stranded, but winter weather can be unpredictable. A roadside emergency kit is a must-have for peace of mind. Stock your car with essentials like a flashlight, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, and basic tools.
It’s also wise to pack some extra blankets, gloves, and a bag of kitty litter or sand. Why the kitty litter? It can help provide traction if your tires get stuck on ice or snow. Having these items handy could make all the difference in an unexpected situation.
Don’t Forget About Visibility
Clear visibility is non-negotiable when driving in winter. Start by replacing your windshield wipers if they leave streaks or don’t clear your windshield effectively. You might also consider upgrading to winter wipers, which are designed to handle snow and ice better.
Take a close look at your headlights, too. Shorter days mean you’ll be relying on them more often, so make sure they’re clean and working properly. If they seem dim, replacing the bulbs or restoring cloudy lenses can make a big difference.
Is your car ready for winter? Let Wes Jackson Automotive help you stay safe this season with professional inspections and maintenance services. Book your appointment today!