As winter approaches and frost and snow accumulates, it’s time to ensure that your vehicle is well-prepared for the winter roads ahead. That’s why we created a guide to help you prepare your vehicle for winter, keep you safe and keep your vehicle running smoothly!
1. Change Your Winter Tires:
The first and most important part of winter driving is having good winter tires. Inspect your winter tires for proper inflation, tread depth, and traction to know if you need a new pair. You can get your winter tires installed at Birchwood, and we can do the inspection for you! We also offer a bonus season of tire storage when you purchase a set of winter tires through Birchwood.
2. Vehicle Fluids Matter:
It is crucial that all your vital fluids such as engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid, are at their recommended levels. Consider using winter-grade fluids for improved performance in colder temperatures.
3. Check Your Battery Health:
Cold weather can be tough on your vehicle’s battery. Test your battery’s strength to see if it will withstand cold weather and replace it if necessary. This is important to ensure your vehicle starts even in cold weather.
4. Brake Inspection
Have your brake system inspected, including pads, rotors, and brake fluid, to make sure you have optimal performance in slippery conditions.
5. Wiper Blades and Fluid
Visibility is key in winter. Replace worn wiper blades and use a winter-grade windshield washer fluid that won’t freeze in low temperatures.
6. Heating System Check
Test the defrosters, heater, and consider flushing the radiator for optimal heating performance. This ensures your heating system is in top shape and you won’t have a frozen windshield and cold interior.
7. Exterior Care
It is important to regularly wash your car to remove corrosive salt and prevent your vehicle from premature rusting. We can detail your vehicle for you here at Birchwood!
8. Check Lights
Ensure all exterior and interior lights are functioning correctly. Days are shorter in winter, and proper illumination is crucial for safety during night driving.
9. Four-Wheel Drive Inspection
If your vehicle has four-wheel drive, ensure that it’s working correctly, and check if your traction is good on ice or in snowy conditions. Test it in a safe environment to confirm seamless transitions between drive modes.
10. Create an Emergency Kit
Pack a winter emergency kit, including items like a blanket, parka, mittens, flashlight, extra batteries, snacks, and a first aid kit. These essentials can be invaluable in case of an unexpected winter breakdown or getting stuck.
By taking the time to prepare your vehicle for winter, you’re not just ensuring your safety but also prolonging the life of your vehicle. These simple yet crucial steps can make a significant difference in how well your car performs during the winter months, providing you with a smoother and safer driving experience.
