Posted on September 27th, 2024.

With the winter months approaching, you must think ahead about how prepared your car is to handle the harsh seasonal conditions.

Driving in snowy and icy conditions isn't just about having a good set of tires; it’s about preparing your entire vehicle. By taking a few proactive measures, you can keep your car reliable and safe, getting you and your family where you need to go without unnecessary troubles.

How many times have you gotten caught in surprise storms or suddenly found yourself sliding on an unexpected icy patch? Ensuring your car is winter-ready ensures that no matter what the season throws at you, you're fully prepared.

 

Inspect and Maintain Your Tires

The first step in winterizing your car is ensuring your tires are up to the task:

 

Check the Tread Depth

Begin by checking the tread depth. An easy way to do this is the penny test: insert a penny into the tire tread with Lincoln's head upside down and facing you. If you can see all of Lincoln's head, it's time to replace your tires. Also, adequate tread depth allows the tire to better grip the road and expel slush.

 

Keep your tires properly inflated

Keep your tires properly inflated, as tire pressure can drop with the temperature. Consult your vehicle's manual for the recommended PSI and regularly check it with a reliable gauge to avoid under-inflation, which can undermine traction and control.

 

Switch to Winter Tires

Winter tires have specialized rubber compounds and tread designs that remain flexible and provide better traction in low temperatures, snow, and ice. While all-season tires might suffice in mild conditions, they can't match the performance of winter tires in severe weather. If you live in an area prone to harsh winter weather or frequent snow and ice, buying a good set of winter tires is a smart investment.

 

Consider Tire Rotation

Routine tire rotation ensures even tread wear, which enhances traction and prolongs tire life. Typically, tires should be rotated every 5,000 to 6,000 miles or as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. Correct alignment is equally critical; misaligned tires can lead to uneven wear, reducing their effectiveness and your vehicle's handling. Getting an alignment check periodically will help your tires' longevity and reliability, particularly in winter conditions.

 

Check and Replenish Fluids

Equally important in the winter season car preparation is checking and replenishing your vehicle’s fluids:

 

Check the Antifreeze Level

Antifreeze prevents the engine from freezing in extremely cold temperatures and aids in maintaining optimal operating temperatures all year round. To check the antifreeze level: 

• Wait until the engine is cool.
• Open the hood and locate the transparent coolant reservoir. The fluid should be within the indicated ‘full’ range.
• If it’s low, top it off with a mixture of 50% water and 50% antifreeze.
• For the winter months, using an antifreeze tester to check the mixture’s freeze point is advisable; the recommended freeze point is -36 degrees Fahrenheit.

 

Consider the Windshield Washer Fluid

Winter driving often means dealing with snow, ice, and road salt, which can obscure visibility. Standard washer fluids can freeze in cold temperatures, rendering them ineffective when you need them most – switch to a winter-specific windshield washer fluid that contains antifreeze components, ensuring it remains liquid even in freezing conditions.

To check the level: 

• Locate the washer fluid reservoir under the hood, which typically has a blue cap.
• Fill it up to the ‘Full’ line with the winter washer fluid.
• Also, check the spray nozzles and make sure they’re not clogged or blocked by ice.

  

Inspect the Engine Oil and Brake Fluid 

During winter, it’s often recommended to switch to a lower viscosity oil if your vehicle’s manufacturer allows it. Lower viscosity oils, such as a 5W-30, flow more easily in cold temperatures, ensuring that your engine is properly lubricated during cold starts. Check your oil level using the dipstick; if it’s below the ‘Full’ mark, add the appropriate oil type.

Meanwhile, brake fluid should be inspected for proper levels and clarity. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture over time, which can lower its boiling point and affect braking performance. To check, locate the brake fluid reservoir, usually near the back of the engine bay. The fluid should be within the ‘Max’ and ‘Min’ marks and should appear clear; if it’s dark or gritty, it’s time for a brake fluid change. 

 

Battery and Electrical System Checks

Cold weather significantly reduces a battery’s capacity to hold a charge, and in frigid conditions, a battery that's already weak can fail completely, leaving you stranded.

 

Test Battery's Health

To guarantee that your battery is up to the colder months, start by testing its charge. This can be done with a digital multimeter. First, make sure the vehicle is off and the terminals are clean and free of corrosion. Connect the multimeter’s red lead to the positive terminal and the black lead to the negative terminal. A fully charged battery should read around 12.6 volts or slightly above. If it reads below 12.4 volts, the battery may need to be charged or replaced.

 

Inspect Battery Cables and Terminals

After confirming the battery’s health, inspect the battery cables and terminals for signs of wear and tear. Corrosion, often appearing as a white, powdery residue, can interfere with the electrical connection. If you spot corrosion, clean the terminals with a mixture of baking soda and water, and secure all connections tightly. Also, assess the condition of the cables themselves—look for any cracks or frays that could impact their performance.

Beyond the battery, check that all your vehicle’s electrical components are functioning correctly. This includes headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights, which are key for maintaining visibility and communication on the road.

 

Related: 8 Essential Safe Driving Skills Everyone Should Learn

 

Wrapping Up

Winter preparation lies encompasses practicality and foresight, ensuring that every drive is as safe as possible despite the unpredictable nature of winter weather. But, beyond the physical readiness of your vehicle, what about the human element? This is where driving skills and safe practices come into play.

At Quest Safety Training, based in Snohomish, Washington, we believe that safety begins with proactivity. Our safety training courses focus on acknowledging the risks and providing strategies to help prevent accidents.

Our Defensive Driver Training courses are designed to equip you with these necessary skills, ensuring you can maintain control and make smart driving decisions when conditions are less than ideal.

Should you have questions, don't hesitate to contact us at (206) 819-4420 or explore our various safety training offerings. Let’s work together to ensure you’re not just ready for winter on a mechanical level but fully equipped to handle the season’s unique challenges safely and confidently.