Preparing your vehicle for winter involves essential maintenance checks and stocking an emergency kit to ensure safety and reliability in cold and hazardous conditions.
Vehicle Maintenance
Battery Check: Cold weather significantly reduces battery power, making it harder to start your engine. Have your battery and charging system tested (especially if the battery is more than three years old) and clean any corrosion from the terminals.
Tire Inspection and Pressure: Ensure tires have adequate tread depth (recommended at least 4/32") for traction on snow and ice. Check pressure regularly, as it drops about one PSI for every 10-degree Fahrenheit decrease in temperature. For optimal safety in severe conditions, consider switching to dedicated winter tires on all four wheels.
Fluid Levels and Type:
Antifreeze/Coolant: Check the level and concentration of your engine coolant/antifreeze to ensure it can protect against freezing and overheating. A 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water is typical for colder climates.
Washer Fluid: Top off your windshield washer fluid reservoir with a winter-specific mixture that is freeze-resistant (rated for very low temperatures).
Oil: Consult your owner's manual about switching to a lower-viscosity, winter-grade oil, which flows better in the cold and reduces engine wear during startup.
Brakes, Belts, and Hoses: Inspect your entire brake system including pads, rotors, and fluid. Check all engine belts and hoses for cracks, brittleness, or signs of wear, as cold temperatures can make them more prone to failure.
Wipers and Lights: Replace worn or streaking wiper blades and consider durable, rubber-clad winter blades to prevent ice buildup. Ensure all exterior lights (headlights, brake lights, turn signals, etc.) are clean and functioning for maximum visibility.
Heating and Defroster: Test your heater and defroster system before winter arrives to ensure they work properly for comfort and clear visibility.
Fuel Tank: Keep your gas tank at least half-full to prevent condensation from forming in the tank and freezing the fuel lines.
Emergency Kit Essentials
Keep a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle at all times. Key items include:
Ice scraper and snow brush/shovel
Jumper cables or a portable jump starter
Flashlight with extra batteries
Warm items: blankets, hats, gloves, socks, and extra clothes
First-aid kit
Non-perishable snacks and bottled water
A bag of abrasive material (sand, salt, or kitty litter) or traction mats to help get unstuck
Cell phone and charger
Basic toolkit and a spare tire (properly inflated)
Warning devices such as flares or reflective triangles
