8 Simple Steps to Ensure Your Car Survives Winter – Protect Your Vehicle & Stay Safe All Season.

Wintertime can be tough on cars, so it’s important to make sure your vehicle is winterized to handle any potential issues. With a few simple steps, you can help ensure your car is ready for whatever winter throws its way. To help you get started, here are 8 easy steps for winterizing your car.

1. Check fluids. Make sure to check the coolant, oil and wiper fluid levels before winter hits. The coolant should be topped off with a non-freeze variety of antifreeze, and if temperatures are likely to drop below freezing, it’s best to switch to a thinner oil mixture. Additionally, make sure to use a winter-resistant wiper fluid in order to keep the windshield clear in colder temperatures.

2. Inspect belts and hoses. Low temperatures can cause belts and hoses to become brittle and loosen, so it’s important to check them frequently. Make sure to look for any signs of cracking, as well as any loose fits. It’s also a good idea to make sure all your hoses are connected securely and not missing any clamps. Replace any broken or worn belts before winter to ensure the car is running at peak efficiency.

3. Replace wiper blades. Being able to see the road clearly is especially important during winter, and having fresh wiper blades is an important part of that. If your blades are over a year old, you should consider replacing them. Look for blades that are specially manufactured for winter weather, as these will be most effective during this season.

4. Make sure tires are prepared. Make sure your tires have the proper air pressure, as this will ensure adequate traction during winter weather. Additionally, if your tires are overly worn, consider investing in snow tires or replacing them altogether.

5. Inspect the battery. Winter weather can reduce the capacity of a battery, so it is important to inspect it before the cold weather hits. Clean up any grime on the terminals and look for signs of damage. Additionally, check the fluid levels and top off with distilled water if needed.

6. Test four-wheel drive. Having four-wheel drive is great in the winter, but only if it’s working correctly. If you’re not sure it’s in good shape, take it in to a local mechanic for an inspection. Paying now for an inspection can save you from being stranded on the roadside later!

7. Test heating coils. Consistent warmth can be hard to come by in the winter months, and your car’s heater is an important part of this. Make sure your heating coils are in good condition. If not, you may need to have them replaced- an expensive repair, but worth the comfort of being toasty during the winter!

8. Prepare an emergency kit. If a winter storm ever leaves you stranded, an emergency kit can be a lifesaver. Consider including items such as a flashlight, emergency signals, a heavy blanket, gloves, winter cap, bag of sand oro kitty litter, a deicer, small shovel, food and water. Check the kit periodically to make sure the items are still in working order and replace food and water whenever necessary.

Following these 8 simple steps can help you winterize your car and make sure it’s running in tip-top shape. Being prepared is the best way to cruise through winter with ease, so keep these steps in mind and get ready for winter!