How to winterize your car
Winter is a beautiful season, but it brings challenges for car owners. The drop in temperature and adverse weather conditions can be tough on your vehicle. Ensuring your car is prepared for winter is crucial for your safety and the car’s performance. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about how to winterize a car. From essential maintenance steps to driving tips, we’ve got you covered.
A checklist for winterizing your car
Battery check
Cold weather can be harsh on your car’s battery. Ensure that your battery is fully charged and in good condition. A weak battery might not survive the winter, leaving you stranded in the cold. Consider getting your battery tested by a professional to ensure it’s up to the task.
Fluids and antifreeze
Your car’s fluids need special attention during winter. Ensure that your engine oil, brake fluid, and power steering fluid are at the right levels. The most critical fluid to check is your antifreeze. This fluid prevents the engine from freezing. Make sure it’s filled to the appropriate level and mixed correctly.
Tires and tread depth
Tires are your car’s only contact with the road, making them incredibly important for winter driving. Invest in winter tires designed for better traction in snow and ice. Check the tread depth to ensure they provide adequate grip. Don’t forget to examine tire pressure regularly, as it can drop with the temperature. Plus, you could be eligible for a discount on your car insurance when you drive with winter tires, depending on where you live. Ask your broker to make sure you take advantage of the discounts available!
Windshield wipers and washer fluid
Visibility is crucial during winter. Replace old windshield wipers with new ones designed for winter conditions. Fill your windshield washer reservoir with winter-grade fluid to prevent freezing. This simple step can make a big difference in maintaining clear visibility. Consider applying a water-repellent treatment to your windshield to improve visibility.
Lights and signals
Ensure all your car’s lights and signals are functioning correctly. Winter days are shorter, and visibility can be poor due to snow and fog. Properly working lights and signals are essential for your safety.
Emergency kit
Prepare an emergency kit tailored for winter. Include items such as a blanket, extra clothing, non-perishable snacks, a flashlight, and a first aid kit. Also, consider adding a small shovel, ice scraper, and sand or kitty litter for traction.
Steps for winter car maintenance
Battery maintenance
Start by checking the age of your battery. If it’s more than three years old, consider replacing it. Clean the battery terminals and ensure they are free of corrosion. Use a battery tester to check the voltage and make sure it’s fully charged.
Changing fluids
Check all your car’s fluids and top them up if necessary. Consider switching to winter-grade oil, which flows better in colder temperatures. Check the antifreeze with an antifreeze tester to ensure it’s still effective. If it looks dirty or diluted, replace it with the correct mixture of antifreeze and water.
Tire care
Switch to winter tires if you haven’t already. Check the tire tread depth; it should be at least 3.5 mm for optimal grip. Regularly monitor the tire pressure, as it can decrease with the temperature. Properly inflated tires ensure better handling and fuel efficiency.
Inspecting lights
Walk around your car and check all lights and signals. Replace any burnt-out bulbs. Ensure the headlights are clean and are aimed correctly. Consider using brighter bulbs designed for better visibility in winter conditions.
Assemble your emergency kit
Gather all the necessary items for your emergency kit. Store them in the trunk or a dedicated space in your car. Make sure they are easily accessible in case of an emergency. Regularly check and update the kit as needed.
Must-know tips for winter driving
Slow down and keep your distance
Winter driving requires a different approach. Slow down and give yourself more time to react. Increase the distance between your car and the one in front of you to allow for longer stopping distances on slippery roads.
Brake and accelerate gently
Sudden movements can cause your car to skid. Accelerate and brake gently to maintain control. If you start to skid, steer in the direction you want to go and ease off the pedals until you regain control.
Use low gears on slippery roads
Using lower gears can help maintain better control on slippery roads. This is especially useful when going downhill. Avoid using cruise control in winter conditions, as it can make it harder to react to changes in road conditions.
Know how to handle skids
If your car starts to skid, stay calm. Steer in the direction you want the car to go. Avoid slamming on the brakes, as this can make the skid worse. Gently ease off the accelerator and steer smoothly.
Maintain your car throughout the winter
Regular maintenance is crucial during winter. Keep your car clean to prevent salt and grime build-up, which can cause rust. Ensure that your wipers, lights, and tires are always in good condition. Regularly check the antifreeze and other fluids.
Have the right car insurance
Comprehensive coverage
Having the right car insurance is vital for winter driving. Comprehensive coverage protects against non-collision-related incidents such as fire, theft and vandalism.
Collision coverage
Collision coverage is essential for safeguarding your finances in case of an accident. Winter conditions often lead to an increase in collisions due to slippery roads and reduced visibility. Ensuring you have sufficient collision coverage can help cover repair costs and minimize financial stress after an accident.
Looking to review your policy or get car insurance before winter weather hits? Contact Westland Insurance today – our advisors are ready and waiting to help you get the coverage you need.
Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in preventing accidents and ensuring a smooth winter commute. Take these steps today and enjoy a safer, more comfortable winter driving experience.