Don't Let Old Man Winter Freeze Your Travel Plans

How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Driving

Winter can be tough on vehicles. Cold temperatures, snow, ice, and road salt all put extra stress on key systems, increasing the risk of breakdowns and safety issues if your car isn’t properly prepared. A little preventative maintenance before winter arrives can save you money, time, and frustration—and help keep you safe on the road.

Here are the most important steps drivers should take to get their vehicle winter-ready.

1. Check Your Battery Health

Cold weather is hard on batteries. In fact, battery failures are one of the most common reasons vehicles won’t start in winter. Low temperatures reduce battery output while your engine requires more power to crank.

Before winter:

• Have the battery tested for proper voltage and cold cranking amps

• Inspect battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections

• Replace aging batteries proactively (typically 3–5 years old)

2. Inspect Tires and Tire Pressure

Your tires are your only contact with the road, and winter conditions make their condition even more critical.

Make sure to:

• Check tread depth (worn tires lose traction quickly in snow and slush)

• Verify all tires are properly inflated (cold air lowers tire pressure)

• Consider winter or all-weather tires if you regularly drive in snow or ice

Don’t forget to check your spare tire as well.

3. Test the Cooling System and Antifreeze

Despite the name, antifreeze is just as important in winter as it is in summer. The correct coolant mixture prevents freezing, corrosion, and overheating.

Winter prep should include:

• Testing antifreeze freeze protection

• Inspecting hoses for cracks or softness

• Checking for coolant leaks

A frozen or compromised cooling system can cause serious engine damage.

4. Replace Wiper Blades and Top Off Washer Fluid

Visibility is critical during winter storms. Snow, ice, and road spray can quickly overwhelm worn wipers.

Before winter:

• Install new wiper blades if streaking or skipping is present

• Use winter-rated windshield washer fluid (freeze-resistant)

• Check defroster operation for both front and rear windows

5. Check Brakes and Suspension Components

Slippery roads demand maximum braking performance and vehicle stability.

A winter inspection should include:

• Measuring brake pad and rotor condition

• Inspecting brake fluid condition

• Checking suspension and steering components for wear

Worn brakes or loose suspension parts can significantly increase stopping distance on icy roads.

6. Verify Engine Oil and Fluid Levels

Cold temperatures thicken old or degraded oil, making engines harder to start and lubricate.

Before winter:

• Ensure your oil is fresh and at the correct viscosity

• Check transmission, power steering, and brake fluid levels

• Look for signs of fluid leaks

Staying current on oil changes is especially important in colder months.

7. Inspect Lights and Safety Equipment

Shorter days and poor weather make proper lighting essential.

Be sure to:

• Test all exterior lights (headlights, brake lights, turn signals)

• Replace dim or burnt-out bulbs

• Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle (jumper cables, flashlight, blanket, etc.)

Let Us Handle Your Winter Prep—Right at Your Location

Winter vehicle preparation doesn’t have to mean taking time off work or sitting in a waiting room. Our mobile maintenance services bring professional, honest vehicle care directly to your home or workplace.

We can inspect your vehicle, address problem areas, and help ensure it’s ready for whatever winter throws your way—all on your schedule.

Schedule your winter maintenance service today and drive into the cold season with confidence.