Ensuring that your car is bundled up as much as you are during the winter months is important. Winterizing your car is important to help maintain top performance. In this article, we will provide some tips on how to winterize your car and what to include in your winter car kit.
A good rule of thumb is prepping your car a few weeks before temperatures drop.
Check Tire Pressure
You have probably heard that when temperatures fluctuate, it’s common for the car’s tire pressure to drop. It is important to check tire pressure once a month, especially during the winter months. If your tires have low air pressure it will not perform at its best. If you live in an area with temperatures below 40 degrees in the winter, buy tires that will work year-round.
Get Snow Tires
If you live in an area covered in snow several months out of the year, you should consider getting snow tires. These tires have softer rubber and deeper tread grooves for better grip. While the risk of sliding may still be present, snow tires reduce the possibility of slipping in the snow as they provide more traction than your everyday tires.
What to consider before buying tire chains
Tire chains are essential to driving in the snow but before you purchase them here are a couple things to consider.
- Size of the tire: Before you purchase tire chains you need to know the size of your tires. You can find this by locating the letter/ number combination on the sidewall of your tire. The first three digits refer to the tire’s width, while the last two refer to its aspect ratio percentage. Be sure to choose a size that fits your tires. If the chains are too big they won’t be able to provide the traction needed. If they’re too small, they won’t fit the tire. Ask a professional for advice when looking for the best tire chains for your vehicle.
- Simple installation: If you haven’t installed tire chains before, try to find a set that will be easy to assemble. Follow the instruction manual.
- Durability: Look for chains that will remain in good condition throughout many winters.
- Types of chains: Depending on terrain, one type will be better than another. Ask a professional to advise you on what chains would work best for your tires and surrounding terrain.
Inspect Your Brakes
Driving through slush, snow, and ice makes the functionality of your brakes essential. The performance of your brakes should always be in top operating condition. Make sure to have them checked if you hear an odd noise as well for general signs of wear.
Check Your Battery
Batteries hate cold weather, so it is essential to winterizing your car. As the temperature drops the electricity in your battery slows down making it difficult to produce the power needed. Have your mechanic check your battery during your oil change. If your battery seems weak, test it and replace it if necessary.
Replace Wiper Blades and Fill Washer Fluid
Winter brings a lot of precipitation during the season; good visibility is important when you’re on the road.
- If you experience snow and ice, install winter wipers for increased visibility. Unlike regular blades, winter wipers are equipped with rubber, which helps prevent ice from collecting on the blades. When Spring comes, change them back to regular wipers.
- If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, consider using special wiper fluid made for freezing temperatures. Check the fluid often and make sure it is properly filled. A single snowstorm can cause you to use most of the fluid.
Inspect and Top-Off Fluids
- Change the oil: It’s an important part of your car’s maintenance routine. Especially during the winter months because motor oil’s effectiveness drops during colder weather. Lower temperatures make the oil thicker and harder to circulate. Ask your mechanic for the best type of oil for winter conditions.
- Cooling system: To prevent corrosion and potential freezing, speak to your mechanic about the type of antifreeze and amount of coolant-to-water ratio that’s best for your car.
- Other essentials: Be sure to check other essential fluids like brake fluid, and transmission fluid.
Your Heating System
A functioning heating system and defroster are a necessity during the winter months. It is important to check they are in working condition and that there aren’t any issues.
Check Your Lights
This next step applies to all seasons. For full visibility and safety, check your brake lights, taillights, and headlights regularly. Replace old bulbs and clean your light covers.
Prepare an Emergency Kit
Regardless of the temperature outside, always carry a first aid/survival preparedness kit in your car. Some items to consider are:
- Blankets
- First Aid kit
- Flashlight
- Nonperishable snacks
- Water
- Warm clothes
- Fire extinguisher
- Ice scraper
- Batteries
- Reflective vests
Protect Your Car’s Exterior
Driving in the winter means road salt. Though it removes ice from the roads, it can also erode the paint on your car. This can be prevented with a quality paint coat and wax or sealant. Talk to a professional about your options. If you don’t have a garage and must park outside, consider purchasing a car cover. Wash your car to rid the exterior of road salt.
Test Your Four-Wheel Drive System
All wheel drive is better for driving in snowy and icy conditions. Four-wheel drive is best for deeper snow or extreme winter conditions. If your car offers these options, make sure that they are in working condition. You might not have used them since last winter, so it is important to have it checked.
Preparing yourself and your vehicle for rough winter conditions is important. Making sure your vehicle is protected with sufficient auto insurance is important too. Call our experienced agents at 1-855-478-3705 to get a free quote.