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It’s that time of year again: Winter has arrived, and with it comes the inevitable snow and cold.This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to get your vehicle ready for the winter months. With the proper vehicle prep, you can safely navigate road conditions without worrying about your vehicle’s performance.
Getting a professional tune-up is an excellent way to ensure your vehicle is ready for coldweather. Tune-ups include an oil change, safety check, tire rotation, brakes check, windshieldwipers replacement, and battery check. You can get a professional full-service tune-up at your local car service centre.
Make sure your car battery is in good working condition. Colder temperatures reduce how much energy a car battery can store. Fully charge the battery and keep a spare charger in the trunk! If your battery is misshaped, there are signs of fluid leaks, or your car is not starting, you may want to change your battery.
Winter tires can handle cold weather, snow and ice better than all-season or summer tires. They provide more traction and grip on slippery surfaces, making driving much safer in icy roadconditions. Winter tires have a tread made of a softer rubber that can cut through snowy roads easier. Check your tire pressure as it changes with lower temperatures. Make sure they are not over-inflated or under-inflated.
Wiper blades are critical to your windshield’s visibility. You can quickly check if they’re in good condition by looking at their rubber edges. If they look cracked or dry, it’s time to replace themwith new ones.
Check your wiper washer fluid levels. Top up the fluid levels for the vipers to clear ice and snow off the windshield without streaking. Having enough washer fluidprevents freezing when the car is not running.
If you’re driving in cold weather, make sure that you keep your gas tank full. Low temperatures and holiday travel can drain your gas tank more quickly than usual, so make sure you are always prepared.
One of the most critical steps in preparing your car for the cold is filling it with antifreeze to prevent any damage to your engine. If you are still determining how much coolant is needed, consult a professional mechanic who can recommend the right amount for your vehicle.
Service your brakes at least twice a year. During winter, they’ll be exposed to more water and snow than in summer, requiring thorough inspection and maintenance.
Lights ensure you can see ahead and be visible to other road users. High-beam headlights should illuminate objects at 250 - 350 feet ahead and low-beam at 150-200 feet. If it’s difficult to see objects at 100 feet or less, the headlights need adjustment or replacement. Tail lights need replacement anytime they burn out; most cars require a particular bulb that a professional autotechnician can only install.
Keeping a winter emergency kit in the trunk can help you stay safe on the road when cold temperatures set in. The kit should include an ice scraper, tire pressure gauge, windshieldwasher fluid, flashlight, rope or chain, jumper cables, and a first aid kit. You can pack cat litter orsand to help with more traction when stuck on the side of the road. Pack a phone charger, gloves, blankets, water, and non-perishable food items for extra peace of mind.
Getting your vehicle ready for the cold weather prevents you from making an unnecessary trip to the car shop and ensures your safety on the road.
