Winter driving can be a daunting experience, with icy roads, freezing temperatures, and harsh weather conditions putting your vehicle to the test.
However, with proper preparation and maintenance, you can ensure a safe and smooth journey throughout the cold season.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share the ultimate winter car care tips to help you get your vehicle ready for the challenges ahead.
1. Perform an Early Winter Maintenance
When winter is coming, You gotta prepare for the tough road ahead. Early winter maintenance can help you preserve your car’s health, as well as keep you safe on rough roads.
Here are a few sections where you need to emphasize an early winter car maintenance check:
Battery
In cold weather, car batteries don’t work as well. The colder it gets outside, the more battery power is needed to start your vehicle.
This means if your battery is old or weak already, you are more likely to get stuck with a dead battery when temperatures drop.
To avoid getting stranded on frosty mornings, auto experts recommend installing a powerful battery before winter.
Look for a car battery rated at 600 cold cranking amps (CCA) or higher. This gives your battery enough extra power to reliably start the engine, even on the chilliest days.
Getting a new, highly-rated battery is an easy way to winterize your car. Don’t wait until your old battery fails – have it checked and replaced as needed by your local auto repair shop.
Cooling Systems
To keep your car’s cooling system working properly in winter, it needs the correct antifreeze-to-water ratio. Too little antifreeze and the coolant can freeze up when it’s very cold outside. But too much antifreeze isn’t good either.
Experts recommend keeping the antifreeze/water mixture between 50/50 and 70/30. This means for every 50-70 parts of antifreeze, you should have 30-50 parts of water.
Different vehicles require specific types of antifreeze. Ask your auto technician which antifreeze product is approved for your make and model.
They can also advise the ideal antifreeze-to-water ratio to prevent cooling system corrosion and freezing.
Maintaining the proper coolant mixture protects your engine from damage all winter long. Have your antifreeze levels checked regularly at your trusted repair shop.
Brakes
The cold alone won’t damage your brakes. However, winter driving conditions like snow, ice, and road salt can seriously impact brake performance and safety if you’re not prepared.
That’s why automotive experts advise having your brakes thoroughly inspected before the winter season begins. A professional brake check ensures all components are in top shape to provide maximum stopping power when you need it most.
During the inspection, the mechanic will look for any worn brake pads, damaged rotors, and fluid leaks. They may also recommend a brake fluid flush to prevent moisture contamination.
Don’t wait until you hit a patch of ice to find out your brakes aren’t up for winter driving duty. A quick brake inspection in the fall can give you peace of mind for taking on harsh winter roads ahead.
Belts, Hoses, Spark Plugs, Wires & Cables
Car problems can happen any time of year. But when something goes wrong with your vehicle in the winter, the consequences are much worse. A breakdown could leave you stuck in freezing temperatures for hours waiting for help.
That’s why it’s so important to get your car serviced before winter arrives. Having key components like the battery, tires, wipers, and coolant system inspected can prevent many cold-weather breakdowns.
No one wants to be stranded on the side of an icy road with temperatures dropping. A little preparation helps ensure you can keep driving safely all winter long without an unexpected breakdown leaving you shivering.
By taking your car in for a pre-winter checkup, you can avoid the danger and discomfort of getting stranded in the cold. Preventative winter car care provides peace of mind for winter driving.
2. Be Sure To Change To Winter Tires
All-season tires can work in winter, but they may not give you the best traction and grip when temperatures plummet. If you live where winters are brutally cold, winter tires are strongly recommended.
When it’s consistently freezing out, the rubber in regular tires gets hard and stiff. This makes the tires “skate” more easily on ice and packed snow instead of gripping properly.
Winter tires, on the other hand, stay flexible and “grab” icy roads because they use special rubber compounds made for extreme cold. Their tread patterns and construction also enhance traction through snow and slush.
For milder winter climates that don’t see excessive snow and ice, all-season tires may suffice. But if you frequently encounter harsh winter storms or sub-zero temps, dedicated winter tires provide the safest performance.
The right tires are essential for winter driving safety. Choose winter tires if you face bitterly cold winters to avoid hazardous slipping and sliding.
3. Check Your Tire Pressure
As temperatures drop in winter, your tire pressure also decreases. For every 10°F colder it gets outside, your tires can lose about 1 PSI (pound per square inch) of air pressure.
Since underinflated tires don’t grip as well, this makes for dangerous driving on slippery winter roads. That’s why it’s crucial to check and refill your tires frequently when it’s cold out.
So how do you know the proper PSI for your vehicle’s tires? Check the driver’s side door jamb sticker or your owner’s manual. It lists the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure for your specific make and model.
By keeping tires inflated to the proper PSI during winter, you’ll have maximum traction and safety. Make a habit of checking pressures every few weeks when it’s cold to avoid being caught with underinflated tires.
4. Check For Temperature Changes That Affect Tire Traction
Before hitting the road for a winter road trip, check the temperature forecast along your route. Rapidly changing temps can make driving conditions go from good to bad in a hurry if you’re not prepared.
It may seem counterintuitive, but super cold temperatures below freezing often provide better traction than temps hovering right around 32°F. Anything warmer than 32° means ice and snow will start to melt and refreeze, creating treacherously slippery patches.
At 0°F or below, roads and bridges tend to stay frozen solid rather than getting slushy and icy. While still requiring caution, these sub-freezing temps often allow for more controlled winter driving.
But if temps climb toward or above freezing during your drive, traction can rapidly deteriorate. Be alert for quick changes in winter driving conditions based on the thermometer reading.
Monitoring temperatures helps you drive accordingly and avoid sliding into danger from suddenly slick winter roads. Check forecasts frequently on long trips.
5. Winter Wiper Installation Is A Must
To keep your windshield clear of ice and snow all winter, invest in winter wiper blades. These heavy-duty wipers use a special rubber coating that prevents ice buildup.
When freezing precipitation hits your windshield, winter wipers easily shrug it off without getting bogged down. This lets you maintain full visibility for safer driving.
Come spring though, it’s important to swap winter wipers for regular ones. Winter blades are thicker and heavier, which puts extra strain on your wiper motor if left on year-round.
By using winter wipers only during the cold months, and then switching back to standard blades, you get amazing ice-clearing power precisely when needed. Your wiper system also avoids unnecessary wear and tear.
Don’t let ice-caked wiper blades turn your windshield into a frozen blindfold this winter. Upgrade to winter wipers for a clear, unobstructed view of the road ahead.
6. Remember To Refill Washer Fluid
During snowy weather, windshield wiper fluid gets used up fast for clearing your windshield. A single snowstorm can empty the washer reservoir quickly. That’s why it’s important to refill it frequently with winter-grade fluid.
Regular windshield wiper fluid will freeze solid once temperatures drop below freezing. To prevent an ice buildup, use a washer fluid specially formulated to withstand extreme cold. Check the label for a low-temperature rating.
If you’re not sure your current fluid is winter-safe, an easy fix is adding a bottle of washer fluid de-icer. This concentrated antifreeze solution mixes with your existing fluid to prevent freezing.
You can find washer fluid de-icers at any auto parts store year-round. Keep an extra bottle in your vehicle during winter for easy refills on the go.
Don’t let frozen wiper fluid leave you stranded with an ice-caked windshield. Make sure you’re using a winter blend, and top it off as needed for clear visibility during winter storms.
7. Add A Winter Safety Kit To Your Car Inventory
Don’t get caught off guard by nasty winter weather during your travels. Before any snowy road trips, stock up on must-have supplies and tools for your vehicle.
A well-equipped winter car emergency kit gives you peace of mind for dealing with cold-weather breakdowns or getting temporarily stranded.
Print out a checklist and use it to fully stock up before your next winter journey. Having these key supplies pre-packed makes it simple to grab your kit and hit the road safely.
Proper preparation could make all the difference if you run into trouble caused by extreme winter driving conditions.
Be a winter road warrior by always traveling with a fully stocked emergency car kit on board. Our infographic guide ensures you don’t leave home without essential supplies.
8. Keep The Gas Tank At Least Half Full
When driving in cold weather, it’s extra important to keep your gas tank at least half full at all times. Running low raises the risk of getting stranded with an empty tank.
There are two key reasons to stay topped up in winter. First, a fuller gas tank has less air space for condensation to build up and potentially freeze your fuel lines.
Secondly, if you do get stuck in snow or have a breakdown, you may need to run the engine to stay warm while waiting for help. Having a near-empty tank leaves you vulnerable to running out of gas entirely.
By making frequent gas stops during winter journeys, you avoid range anxiety and the perils of a frozen fuel system or being stranded with no heat source.
Don’t tempt fate with a low fuel gauge when temperatures plummet. Top off the tank whenever you can to improve cold-weather reliability and safety.
9. The Rear Window Defroster Must Be Kept In Top Condition
In many places, it’s against the law to drive with an obstructed view out your back window. Having condensation, ice, or snow blocking your rearview is considered an unsafe driving condition that could lead to costly tickets.
That’s why it’s so important to make sure your rear defrost system works before winter hits. A failed rear defroster makes it impossible to keep your back glass clear when temperatures tumble.
Before the cold arrives each year, test your rear window’s defrost system thoroughly. Turn it on and make sure it’s heating properly to evaporate any condensation buildup rapidly.
If your defroster isn’t working at full strength, have it diagnosed and repaired right away. Replacing a faulty defrost grid lets you easily clear your rear view with the push of a button.
Don’t risk rear-ending someone or getting pulled over due to impaired rearward visibility. Ensure your back window defroster is winter-ready for maximum safety.
10. Increase Knowledge Of Winter Emergency Preparedness
Getting stranded in a blizzard while driving is scary, but it’s important to know what actions to take for safety. Follow these winter survival tips if you ever get stuck in a powerful snowstorm:
- Stay With Your Vehicle: Never wander away from your car, or you risk getting lost and making rescue extremely difficult. Your vehicle provides shelter.
- Conserve Gas and Avoid Carbon Monoxide: Only run the engine intermittently for short periods to stay warm. Opening windows periodically refreshes air flow and prevents carbon monoxide buildup when the engine is on.
- Make Your Vehicle Visible: Turn on the dome light or hazard lights when stranded. This helps rescuers spot your location more easily in whiteout conditions.
By remaining calm and following smart winter survival protocol, you maximize your chances of being swiftly located and rescued from any stranded situation. Always pack an emergency kit as well as supplies like blankets and snacks.
11. Check All The Lights
The sun goes down much earlier during the winter months, leaving drivers with far less daylight. This makes it crucial that all your vehicle’s lights are working properly and shining brightly.
With short winter days and gloomy weather, your headlights, taillights, turn signals, and reverse lights need to be in top condition for maximum visibility. Dim or burned-out bulbs make your car harder to see, increasing the risk of accidents.
Before winter arrives, inspect all your light bulbs and replace any that appear dimmed or aren’t functioning at full brightness. Cloudy or damaged headlight lenses should also be restored or replaced.
Don’t get caught driving in low-visibility winter conditions with substandard exterior lighting. Proper working lights allow other motorists to easily spot you from all angles, day or night.
Have any lighting issues diagnosed and fixed by a technician to ensure excellent winter visibility. Your lights could save a life on dark, dreary winter roads.
12. Maintain Car Battery On The Go
Your vehicle’s battery has a tougher job in winter than in summer. Even batteries that seem fine when it’s warm may lose enough power in freezing temperatures to leave you stranded.
The cold slows the chemical reactions inside batteries, sapping their ability to fully charge. An already weak or aging battery is especially vulnerable to dying once chilly weather sets in.
To avoid getting stuck with a dead battery, it’s best to have it tested before winter road trips. Auto parts stores and repair shops can check your battery’s charge level and overall condition with a quick checkup.
If tests show the battery is too worn out, you should get it replaced right away. Driving your car with a weak battery is just asking for it to fail once the mercury drops.
Prevent cold-weather battery headaches by having yours tested annually and replace if needed. A fresh, high-performance battery offers reliable starting power all winter long.
13. Check The Windshield For Any Cracks
Your windshield is a vital safety component that protects you from wind, rain, snow, and other visibility obstacles. That’s why it’s so important to inspect it closely for any cracks or leaks before winter.
Cold temperatures can cause frost, fog, and ice to form rapidly on the windshield glass, dangerously obscuring your view of the road ahead. This frozen condensation is a leading cause of limited visibility crashes during winter storms.
The solution? Using your climate control system properly to equalize interior and exterior temperatures. Run the defroster to blow dry heat across the windshield, evaporating any icy buildup that hampers your line of sight.
With a clear, unobstructed windshield, you can react quickly to hazards and drive confidently even in blinding winter weather. Any small cracks should also be repaired to prevent spreading and compromise structural integrity.
Don’t risk a serious accident due to poor outward vision. Keep that windshield defrosted and maintained for maximum winter driving safety.
14. Tire Pressure And Tread Depth Is Vital
Your vehicle’s tires are the only parts that make direct contact with the road. This makes them vitally important for maintaining traction and control, especially on slippery winter surfaces.
Before winter hits, you need to inspect your tires thoroughly. First, check that all tire pressures match the manufacturer’s recommended PSI levels listed in your owner’s manual. Underinflated tires have far less grip on ice and snow.
Next, examine the tread depth by sticking a quarter upside down into the grooves. As you can see above Washington’s head, the tread is dangerously low and those tires need replacing immediately.
Tires with sufficient tread depth and proper inflation provide maximum traction to prevent hazardous slipping and sliding in winter weather conditions. Old, worn, or underinflated tires raise your risk of losing control.
Don’t neglect this critical winter safety check. Having adequate tire tread and pressure could be the difference between a safe trip and landing in a ditch.
15. Renew Car Insurance
Winter weather can do a number on your vehicle if you’re not prepared. Pothole damage, fender benders on ice, or a dead battery can mean expensive repairs. The smartest way to avoid huge out-of-pocket costs is to have active car insurance coverage.
Don’t let an unexpected winter incident drain your savings. With the right auto insurance policy in place, you’re protected against costly repair bills for weather-related car issues and accidents.
To Wrap It All Up
To Recap, here are the top 15 winter car care tips:
1. Perform an Early Winter Maintenance
2. Be Sure To Change To Winter Tires
3. Check Your Tire Pressure
4. Check For Temperature Changes That Affect Tire Traction
5. Winter Wiper Installation Is A Must
6. Remember To Refill Washer Fluid
7. Add A Winter Safety Kit To Your Car Inventory
8. Keep The Gas Tank At Least Half Full
9. The Rear Window Defroster Must Be Kept In Top Condition
10. Increase Knowledge Of Winter Emergency Preparedness
11. Check All The Lights
12. Maintain Car Battery On The Go
13. Check The Windshield For Any Cracks
14. Tire Pressure and Tread Depth Is Vital
15. Renew Car Insurance
FAQ
Wash your vehicle regularly to remove road salt, and consider applying a rust-proofing treatment.
Check the battery, starter, and fuel system, and use a block heater or engine heating pad if necessary.
Use winter tires, carry sand or cat litter for added traction, and consider investing in tire chains or cables.
Never force frozen wipers off the windshield, as this can damage them. Use a de-icer spray or pour warm water to melt the ice.
Apply a dry silicone lubricant or lock de-icer spray to the door locks to prevent freezing.
Use the defroster and adjust the temperature and fan settings to improve airflow and reduce condensation.
Reduce your speed, increase following distance, and use your low-beam headlights in heavy snow or fog.
Clear snow from the wheels, use sand or cat litter for traction and gently rock the vehicle back and forth.
Pack a winter emergency kit, check your vehicle’s fluids and tire pressure, and plan your route ahead of time.
Stay with your vehicle, run the engine occasionally for heat, and clear the exhaust pipe to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.