10 Winter Car Care Tips To Keep Your Car Running

The winter months can be rough on your vehicle. Cars are exposed to the elements on icy, snowy roads. Winter car care is essential before the cold sets in.

We’ve created some helpful guidelines on winter car care to help winterize your car.

1. Have Your Battery Checked

Winter is tough on batteries, which is why they frequently die during the cold months. As long as your battery is relatively new, charging it can be a great way to make sure it retains power through the winter. Getting your battery tested is a great first step.

2. Get An Annual Tune-Up

Routine maintenance is a great way to ensure that your car is prepared for the harsh winter elements. A tune-up is also a great preventative measure.

3. Fill Up Your Fluids

Your engine's coolant, or antifreeze, helps to keep it from freezing in cold weather. Ensure the levels are filled up to the recommended levels and without leakage.

4. Wash and Wax Your Car

Any salt, sludge, and moisture can damage your car's exterior due to the corrosive effects of road salt and grime. Washing and waxing your vehicle a few times each winter helps eliminate any excess buildup of winter road grime.

5. Replace Your Wiper Blades

You'll need sharp wiper blades for battling snow and sleet when winter driving. The spray from muddy and slushy roads can quickly coat your windshield, making it difficult to see. It's recommended to replace your wiper blades if they're older than one year.

6. Use Winter Tires

Winter tires maintain their softness in cold conditions providing better traction. All-season tires are made of softer rubber compounds that could slide or skid when driving on cold roads, even if they're dry.

7. Check Your Tire Tread And Pressure

Check your tire pressure regularly. Cold temperatures cause tire pressures to drop, so make a habit of checking them each week in the winter.

8. Keep an Emergency Kit in the Trunk

Prepare a roadside emergency kit. Lighters, jumper cables, food, warm clothing, and a backup cell phone are all things you should keep in your car in case of winter emergencies.

9. Keep Your Lights Clean And Bright

Make sure all your lights work in the winter. Since the sun sets faster in the colder months, ensure your headlights, taillights, and brake lights are all functioning correctly.

10. Stay Alert For Slippery Roads

The road temperature is typically cooler in shaded areas, and drivers may encounter another hazardous element known as "black ice". Slow down and approach these areas slowly when driving in inclement weather.

Driving during winter can be difficult due to decreased traction, slippery roads, and other challenges. Give Ganley Ford Barberton Service Department a call to winterize your car for this winter.