We may be in February, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have to think about winterizing our vehicles. Going through a simple car winterization process will help ensure your vehicle runs smoothly all season. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make sure your car stays winter-ready through spring.
Check Your Tire Tread
As temperatures drop, road conditions get slick and hazard-filled. The last thing you want is a skid-out due to bald tires. Inspect tire treads and make sure they have adequate depth. The easy way to check is by using the penny test. Stick a penny upside down into a few tread grooves across each tire. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tread depth is too low, and it’s time to replace them. Make sure to rotate and adequately inflate them as well for best winter traction.
Change Out to Winter Wiper Blades
Speaking of hazardous conditions, you’ll likely face sleet, snow, and ice, which can quickly coat windshields and limit visibility. Upgrade to durable winter wiper blades that withstand heavy precipitation without streaking or chattering. Make sure they fully clear your windshield with each pass for crystal-clear vision all season.
Check Battery Power and Cables
Cranky winter weather is no friend to car batteries, especially older ones. Cold saps battery power, so it’s wise to test yours before temperatures plummet. Load testers can quickly analyze its charge-holding capability so you don’t get stuck with a dead battery on a snowy morning. While you’re at it, inspect battery cables for fraying or corrosion and replace them if needed. Secure connections are essential for reliable winter starts.
Change Fluids
The last thing you want on a below-freezing day is an engine that won’t turn over or a locked drivetrain. Old, watery fluids can freeze or move sluggishly in low temperatures. Treat your car to fresh fills of motor oil, transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid, and more. This winterization step circulates new conditioners throughout critical systems.
Check Antifreeze Strength
Coolant/antifreeze is the magical fluid that lets engines warm up quickly while preventing cold weather freeze-ups. Over time it breaks down, so having your antifreeze tested pre-winter is smart. Cooling shops can examine its condition, strength, and freezing point. They may recommend a stronger mix to handle winter extremes in your area based on climate severity. Replacing worn-out coolant keeps critical passages ice-free.
Prep Your Emergency Kit
Even with thorough winterization, extreme weather can still cause issues. Always have an emergency kit on board containing gloves, a flashlight, jumper cables, traction aids like kitty litter, a window scraper, snacks, water, and a first-aid kit. Extra blankets or a change of warmer clothes are also smart additions.
Plus, keep your gas tank over half full whenever possible to prevent fuel line freezing. Avoid getting stuck out in the risky cold by preparing for winter hazards ahead of time.
Winter prep checkups and fluid changes are just part of seasonal maintenance to keep your automobile running right. Don’t overlook regular service intervals like oil changes, filter replacing, inspection checks, and more during cold months.
Stopping by All Tech Automotive in Omaha for routine upkeep ensures top performance all season long. Their knowledgeable technicians have the skills, tools, and experience to have you winter-ready. Call All Tech Automotive today at 402-971-6344 or stop in and talk winter care with our friendly, professional staff.