Preparing your automobile for winter driving is essential to ensure safety, reliability, and performance in cold, icy, or snowy conditions. Here’s a step-by-step guide to winterizing your vehicle:
1. Check the Battery
Cold weather reduces battery capacity. Have it tested (most auto shops do this for free) and replace it if weak.
Clean corrosion from terminals and ensure connections are tight.
Consider a battery blanket or warmer if you live in extremely cold climates.
2. Inspect Tires
Winter Tires: Install winter/snow tires if you live in an area with heavy snow or ice. They provide better traction in temperatures below 45°F (7°C).
Tread Depth: Ensure tires have adequate tread (at least 6/32″ for winter driving). Use the penny test (Lincoln’s head upside down) to check.
Tire Pressure: Cold temperatures reduce tire pressure. Check and inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI (found in the door jamb or manual).
3. Check Fluids
Antifreeze/Coolant: Ensure the coolant is at the proper level and mixture (usually 50/50 antifreeze and water) to prevent freezing.
Windshield Washer Fluid: Use a winter-grade fluid with antifreeze properties to prevent freezing.
Oil: Consider switching to a lower-viscosity oil (e.g., 5W-30 instead of 10W-30) for better cold-weather performance.
4. Test the Heating System
Verify that the defroster, heater, and rear window defogger work properly.
Replace the cabin air filter if needed for better airflow.
5. Inspect Wiper Blades & Lights
Replace worn wiper blades with winter-rated ones (snow-resistant or rubber-coated).
Fill the windshield washer reservoir with winter fluid.
Check all exterior lights (headlights, brake lights, turn signals) for proper function.