Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter 

Winter is here! We’re lucky to live in Southern California where we don’t often get freezing temperatures, but that doesn’t mean we don’t need to prepare our vehicles for colder weather. Here are a few things you can do to make sure your car can withstand winter driving. 

Tires

Tires are always important, and that’s particularly true in winter when you might need to drive through rain and slick or flooded roads. Check your tire pressure and tread depth to ensure that your tires have maximum traction. If you’re headed to the mountains where you might encounter snow or ice, consider swapping out to winter tires or even getting chains when appropriate.  

Wipers

Rainfall can vary throughout the winter months. You never know when you’ll get caught in a little drizzle or a serious downpour. Even a quick sprinkle can mix with dust and road grime on your window and make it difficult to see. Check your wiper blades and replace them if necessary. Don’t forget to check the wiper fluid as well, which will come in handy to wash off any smears left from a SoCal drizzle.  

Fluids

Your vehicle is full of important fluids that need to be checked, filled and replaced as part of regular maintenance. Fluids such as oil, transmission, coolant/antifreeze, brake, power steering and more should be inspected as part of getting ready for cold weather. Top off any fluids that are low and replace any that have deteriorated over time and with use.   

Battery

When temps dip it can have an effect on your car’s battery. Your battery works through a chemical reaction, and cold weather can mean trouble. A car’s battery will lose around 35 percent of its power at 32°F. It’s a good idea to have the battery tested, and to ensure that the terminals are clean. If possible, park your vehicle in a garage to protect your battery from chilling overnight temperatures. 

Wash and wax

Maintaining your vehicle includes keeping the exterior in nice shape. Rain, mud and other winter road grime can wreak havoc on your car’s clear coat and paint. It might seem counterintuitive to wash and wax your vehicle, especially if it’s going to rain. However, this protective measure will help your car look good for years to come.  

Emergency kit

No one wants to be stuck out in the cold. However, even with the best vehicle winterizing, we can’t anticipate every road obstacle. If you do end up being trapped in the cold, you’ll be glad to have an emergency kit. Look for one with road signs or flares to help other drivers see you through low visibility situations. Make sure you include blankets, water and a snack to keep you going until help arrives.   

Ways to Winterize

Cold weather means your vehicle needs some extra attention to run at top levels. Be sure to give your car a once-over, particularly if you’re headed for any road trips into freezing temperatures.   

Get help winterizing your vehicle

Contact the service department at any of our dealerships to learn how they can help you check your tires, fluids and get your car winter ready.