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How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter

At Wheelers, your safety and happiness is our top priority. Our service teams are heavily skilled and ready to prepare your vehicle for winter in Wisconsin! From our multipoint inspection to our no-appointment service options, we try to make it as easy as possible to get ready for colder weather.

Getting your vehicle ready for winter is essential to ensure safety and reliability during cold and potentially challenging weather conditions. Here’s a checklist of things you should do to prepare your vehicle for winter:

1. Check the Battery: Cold weather can put extra strain on your vehicle’s battery. Have it tested to ensure it’s in good condition, and replace it if it’s weak or nearing the end of its life.
2. Inspect Tires: Make sure your tires have sufficient tread depth for good traction. Consider switching to winter tires if you live in an area with heavy snowfall. Don’t forget to check tire pressure regularly as it can drop in colder temperatures.
3. Change Oil and Oil Filter: Consider switching to a lower-viscosity oil for winter, as it can flow more easily in cold temperatures. Also, make sure the oil filter is in good condition.
4. Check Antifreeze/Coolant: Ensure your coolant is a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water to prevent freezing. Check for leaks in the cooling system.
5. Inspect Belts and Hoses: Cold weather can make rubber components brittle. Inspect and replace any worn or damaged belts and hoses.
6. Brakes: Make sure your brakes are in good working order. This is crucial for safe winter driving.
7. Windshield Wipers and Washer Fluid: Replace old wiper blades and use winter-rated windshield washer fluid that won’t freeze.
8. Heater and Defroster: Ensure that your heater and defroster are working properly to keep you warm and maintain good visibility.
9. Lights: Check all exterior lights (headlights, taillights, turn signals, brake lights, etc.) to ensure they are working correctly.
10. Battery Terminals and Cables: Clean any corrosion on the battery terminals and cable connections to maintain a strong electrical connection.
11. Exhaust System: Inspect the exhaust system for leaks to prevent carbon monoxide from entering the vehicle.
12. Emergency Kit: Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including items like a flashlight, extra batteries, blankets, a first aid kit, non-perishable snacks, and a basic set of tools.
13. Tire Chains or Snow Tires: In areas with heavy snowfall, consider carrying tire chains and practice installing them. Snow tires can also provide better traction in winter conditions.
14. Fuel Level: Try to keep your fuel tank at least half full during winter to prevent moisture from accumulating in the fuel lines and to ensure you have enough fuel in case you get stuck or stranded.
15. Check 4WD/AWD System: If your vehicle has four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, make sure the system is functioning correctly.
16. Carry a Snow Shovel and Ice Scraper: These tools can be essential for clearing snow and ice from around your vehicle.
17. Winterize Your Emergency Kit: In addition to the basic emergency kit, consider adding items like extra warm clothing, hand warmers, and a fully charged portable phone charger.
18. Check Your Insurance: Make sure your auto insurance coverage is up to date and that you understand the procedures for filing a claim in case of a winter-related accident.

By following these steps and being proactive in your vehicle maintenance, you can help ensure a safer and more reliable driving experience during the winter months.

Reach out to Wheeler’s today to schedule a service appointment, or just stop into our Express Center!