Preparing Your Car For Cold Weather

As the temperature drops and winter approaches, it’s essential to ensure your vehicle is ready to handle the harsh weather conditions. Not only will this ensure that your car is safe to drive, but it will also help to extend the life of your vehicle and save you money on costly repairs down the road.

Here are some tips for preparing your vehicle for the cold weather

Check your antifreeze levels

Make sure your antifreeze is topped off and adequately mixed. Antifreeze helps to keep your engine from freezing in cold temperatures, so it’s important to have enough.

Check your battery

Cold weather can be tough on car batteries, so it’s a good idea to have it tested before the winter months. If your battery is more than three years old or if it’s showing signs of weakness, it may be time to replace it.

Check your tires

Make sure your tires have plenty of tread and are properly inflated. In cold weather, it’s especially important to have good traction, as roads can be slippery. Consider using winter tires, which are designed to provide better traction in snow and ice.

Check your windshield wipers

Cold temperatures can cause your wipers to become stiff and less effective. Replace them if they are worn or not working properly. Also, ensure you have plenty of windshield wiper fluid, as it can help keep your windshield clear in cold weather.

Check your heater and defroster

Make sure your heater and defroster are in good working order. You’ll want to see clearly through your windshield, and a properly functioning heater will help keep you warm on those cold winter days.

Check your lights

Ensure your lights are working properly, including your headlights, taillights, and turn signals. In the winter, the days are shorter, and visibility can be poor, so it’s crucial to have your lights functioning correctly.

Check your belts and hoses

Cold weather can cause belts and hoses to become brittle and break. Ensure they are in good condition and replace any worn ones.

Check your emergency kit

It’s a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your car at all times, but it’s imperative in the winter. Ensure your kit includes a flashlight, blankets, a first aid kit, a cellphone charger, and other items that could come in handy in an emergency.

Check your fuel level

Check that you have a full gas tank before going on a long trip. This will help to prevent your fuel lines from freezing and will give you a reserve in case you get stranded.

Check your brakes

It’s crucial to have good brakes at all times, but in the winter, when roads are slippery, it’s even more critical. Have your brakes checked regularly to ensure they are in good working order. At Brakes To Go we can inspect your brakes at no cost to you with availability as soon as today! Call 512-585-1845 for an easy appointment or get a free quote here.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your vehicle is ready to handle the cold weather. Remember, it’s always better to be prepared than to be caught off guard by a problem.