Winter can be hard on vehicles, with cold temperatures and challenging road conditions increasing the risk of breakdowns. Winter scheduled maintenance is essential for keeping your vehicle safe and reliable throughout the season. Here are some key maintenance tasks to ensure your car is winter-ready.
Essential Winter Maintenance Tasks
1. Battery Check Cold temperatures can drain battery power quickly. Having your battery inspected before winter sets in can prevent inconvenient breakdowns. A quick test will determine if your battery holds enough charge or if it’s time for a replacement.
2. Tire Inspection and Rotation Winter tires are ideal if you frequently drive in snowy or icy conditions, as they provide better grip and control. Even if you stick with all-season tires, make sure they have sufficient tread depth to handle slippery roads. Properly inflated and rotated tires also improve fuel efficiency and reduce wear.
3. Check the Antifreeze/Coolant Levels Coolant prevents the engine from freezing in cold weather, so it’s critical to ensure the antifreeze mixture is correct for your climate. A coolant flush may also be necessary if your vehicle hasn’t had one recently.
4. Wiper Blades and Washer Fluid Visibility is often compromised during winter due to snow, sleet, and salt on the roads. Replacing worn wiper blades and using winter washer fluid can help keep your windshield clear.
5. Heating System and Defroster Check A functional heater and defroster are essential in winter. Make sure both are working properly before temperatures drop to keep the cabin comfortable and the windshield clear of frost.
Additional Winter Care Tips
- Oil Change: Winter months can be hard on your engine, and switching to winter-grade oil, which is designed to flow more easily in cold temperatures, can help.
- Emergency Kit: Having a winter emergency kit, including a blanket, flashlight, and jumper cables, can be a lifesaver in case of a breakdown.
Winter maintenance is essential for safe driving. If you’re due for a winter checkup, book an appointment with us today. Our experienced mechanics will make sure your car is ready to face the challenges of winter.