Hey everyone, this is our first blog post at Manner Auto Group. We plan to share a wide range of content, from progress on projects, tips and tricks, important car industry news, exciting releases. For now, we decided it was appropriate to talk about a general topic and give some reminders, or tips and tricks, coming into this winter season. So, we put together this little guide that you can follow to make sure your vehicle is well prepared for a cold winter. Stay warm and stay safe!
Winter Car Maintenance: Tips to Keep Your Ride Safe This Season Winter is around the corner, and prepping your car now can help you avoid breakdowns and stay safe when temperatures drop. Here’s a quick guide to getting your vehicle winter-ready.
1. Test Your Battery Strength Car batteries struggle in the cold, so a weak battery could leave you stranded. Cold weather slows chemical reactions in car batteries, reducing their power output, and a battery below 12 volts might not even start your engine. Consider getting your battery tested or replaced if it’s older than three years—Nationwide suggests doing this early in the season to avoid problems on freezing mornings.
2. Switch to Winter Tires Winter tires can be game changers on icy roads. They offer better grip and cut down stopping distances on snow, making driving in slick conditions safer. Tires tend to lose pressure in the cold, so check your tire pressure monthly to ensure good contact with the road. Family Handyman explains that these specialized tires can prevent accidents by improving traction by up to 33% compared to standard all-season tires.
3. Protect Your Engine with Proper Fluids Cold weather affects your car’s fluids, thickening engine oil and coolant. It’s best to switch to a “winter weight” oil that flows more easily in low temperatures. Also, check your coolant level to make sure your engine stays at the right temperature, even in freezing conditions. Kelley Blue Book emphasizes that keeping antifreeze fresh can prevent engine damage and costly repairs down the line.
4. Install Winter Wiper Blades Regular wipers can freeze up and leave your windshield streaky. Winter wiper blades are designed to stay flexible in low temperatures and prevent ice build-up, giving you a clear view on frosty mornings. Car Vertical recommends replacing both your wiper blades and windshield washer fluid with a winter formula that won’t freeze, so you’ll have reliable visibility all season.
5. Pack a Winter Emergency Kit It’s a good idea to carry an emergency kit with essentials like a flashlight, blankets, a portable charger, and snacks in case you get stuck. Kelley Blue Book suggests also including a small shovel, ice scraper, and tire pressure gauge for emergencies on the road.
6. Keep It Clean Winter road salt can corrode your car’s paint and undercarriage, so give your car a quick wash at least once a month. Applying a protective wax layer before winter arrives can also shield your paint. CarVertical highlights the importance of this maintenance step, noting that preventing rust keeps your car looking new and helps it hold value.
With these easy steps, you’ll be ready to tackle winter driving with confidence. Manner Auto Group is here to help with maintenance and winter tire options, so stop by and let us help you prepare for a safer season on the road.
Stay Tuned for more blog posts, we'll be giving big fun updates soon. For now, enjoy the changing of the season and prepare to come prepared when you're on the road during dangerous conditions. Wish you all a great week!
- Zack Mann