Get Your Car Winter Ready With This Winter Weather Auto Checklist

The harsh conditions of winter can wreak havoc on the roads and your car. It’s important to be up to date with your regular car maintenance while also paying special attention to the unique challenges winter weather can bring to your vehicle. Here’s a winter auto maintenance checklist to help you keep your car in tip top shape even when the blistering blizzards hit.

Check Your Tires

Tires should have good tread (2/32") to handle the snow, if your tires are worn down from the summer's wear, consider getting winter tires to provide the best traction. Also be sure to check the pressure in your tires. You need a well-inflated tire in order to bite down on the snow covering the hard pavement, otherwise you'll be more susceptible to hydroplaning your vehicle on winter's wet roads. 

New Windshield Wipers Blades

Windshield wipers blades should completely clear your window with each swipe so be sure to replace them if they streak as limited visibility will prove especially dangerous during heavy rains and storms. “Beam blade" style wipers are great during winter months because they have a flexible shaft which prevents the external springs from freezing up.

  

Washer Fluid Levels

Make sure you have enough washer fluid with a cleaning solution that has antifreeze properties for winter weather use. 

Battery Check

Ask a mechanic to do a battery check next time you're getting your oil changed (every 3,000 miles) to see what condition your battery is in before it's too late. Cold weather drains battery life – especially if you park your car outdoors, and a fully charged battery with secure cables is necessary for a car to start in freezing weather.

Antifreeze Level

While you're at the auto shop, ask them to check your car's coolant level to make sure you have enough of the 50/50 water/coolant mixture for winter. This is especially important if you've just moved to a much colder climate. You can also check your coolant level yourself with a quick, inexpensive tester from the car parts store.

  

Brake Inspection

Be sure to have your brakes inspected by a certified technician to ensure all components are in good working order. The slippery roads of winter is a crucial time for brakes to be in ship shape.

Lights

Check your lights and replace burnt out bulbs if necessary. For extra credit, rub car wax on your headlights to prevent ice buildup and ensure that they'll shine bright through the winter gloom.

These basic winter auto maintenance checklist items should put you in good shape this winter and keep your car working well even in the most severe winter weather conditions.

For more info about car maintenance, our specialists at Whiteside's have put together a comprehensive list for maintaining your car to make sure that it's always in good shape.

When the time comes to replace your current car, be sure to check out the vast inventory of new and pre-owned cars at Whiteside Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC. You can browse our lot without leaving the warmth and comfort of your own home.