Get Your Car Ready for Winter: 9 Things to Do Before the Cold Hits
Hi, it's Fabio from Honest Ride Parts.
Before the cold weather really hits, spend a little time getting your car ready. You'll be less likely to get stuck, and less likely to end up with a rusty or broken car by spring. Here are nine things to do now.
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Test your battery
Cold weather is hard on batteries, and an old one can quit on you once it gets freezing. Look at the date on the battery. If it's three to five years old, think about replacing it. Better yet, take it to an auto parts store and have them test it for free so you know it's still strong.
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Check all your fluids
Make sure the oil level is good. In very cold places you might need a thinner oil, so check your owner's manual. Check the coolant while the engine is cold and make sure it's mixed so it won't freeze. Also switch to a windshield washer fluid that won't freeze.
Safety tip: Never open the radiator or coolant cap while the engine is hot.
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Replace worn wiper blades
Your wiper blades matter more in winter because of all the salt and grime. Old blades just smear everything around instead of cleaning it, so put new ones on if yours are worn out.
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Get your tires ready
Winter tires give you much better grip on snow and ice than regular all-season tires. Even if you stick with all-seasons, check the air pressure and make sure there's still decent tread left. Worn tires don't hold the road well in slippery conditions.
Good to know: Tire pressure drops about 1 PSI for every 10°F the temperature falls, so check it again after the first cold morning.
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Do bigger repairs now
Do any bigger repairs or maintenance before winter arrives. It's a lot harder and more miserable to work on your car once it's freezing outside.
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Test your heater and defrosters
Test your heater before you need it. Run the fan on different speeds, turn the temperature from cold to hot, and make sure the defrosters and seat heaters (if you have them) are working.
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Keep your gas tank at least half full
A fuller tank leaves less room for moisture, which helps keep water from forming inside and freezing the fuel lines. It also means you can keep the engine running longer for heat if you ever get stuck.
Safety tip: If you're stuck in snow with the engine running, keep the tailpipe clear of snow. A blocked tailpipe can push dangerous carbon monoxide into the car.
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Protect your car from road salt
Road salt is tough on cars and makes rust happen faster. An undercoating on the bottom of the vehicle creates a barrier that helps protect it. A ceramic spray or similar coating on the paint also makes salt and dirt rinse off more easily, so your car stays nicer longer.
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Pack a winter emergency kit
Put together a small emergency kit and leave it in the car. These things can make a big difference if you get stuck or have to help someone else. Check off what you already have:
This week's quick checklist
Taking care of these things ahead of time keeps you safer and saves you a lot of headaches once winter starts.
Next issue →3 cheap habits that protect your car's most expensive parts.Drive safely,
Fabio
Honest Ride Parts
This newsletter is general information, not professional mechanical advice. Always follow your owner's manual and the instructions on your parts.
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