Winter vehicle maintenance starts now

Changing seasons expose vehicles to various conditions throughout the year. Although severe weather can occur at any time, the winter is known to be particularly harsh and can make it hard for a vehicle to function properly.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says winter weather can cause extremely dangerous road conditions. An estimated 320 fatal traffic crashes occurred in the U.S. in 2023, and 22,293 injuries happened when there was snow or sleet conditions at the time of the crash.

It is essential that drivers prepare their vehicles for winter weather. Properly winterizing a car can help prevent breakdowns and accidents, and also potentially save drivers from being stranded in the cold.

Here are some winter car maintenance tips to consider before the first storm of the season, courtesy of AAA and State Farm®.

• Test the battery. A driver needs a battery to be fully charged and in good condition to start the engine on cold winter mornings. Colder temperatures cause chemical reactions within the battery, which can make electricity slow down and hinder the vehicle’s ability to reach maximum power. Check the battery prior to winter, and replace it, if necessary.
• Check fluids. Part of winter preparation is ensuring that all of the car’s fluids are at the right levels and appropriate for low temperatures. This includes engine oil, windshield washer fluid, and antifreeze.
• Schedule a maintenance checkup. A mechanic can look at hoses and belts to check that they are in good working order. Cold temperatures can make belts and hoses more brittle and prone to breaking.
• Apply a windshield repellent. Scraping ice and snow off of windshields on winter mornings can be a frustrating and arduous task. Adding hydrophobic repellent like Rain-X to the windshield can make it easier to remove ice later on.
• Maintain tire pressure. As outside temperatures drop, so does tire pressure. Routinely check and inflate tires to the recommended pressure listed on a label located on the driver’s side door frame.
• Inspect the wiper blades. Seeing clearly out of the windshield is important for safe winter driving. In addition to a properly working defroster, drivers will need wiper blades that can remove rain and snow. If any streaks or skips occur while using the wipers, it might be time for a new set.
• Conduct a brake check. A combination of snow, moisture, and salt on roads can contribute to rust on brakes and rotors. Symptoms of brake issues include noises, sticking brake pads, and slower stop times. Before the thick of winter, drivers are urged to have their brakes checked by a professional.

Winter is on the horizon, and vehicle owners should prepare their cars and trucks now for the rough weather to come.