Winter weather can present many challenges for your vehicle. Whether you’re driving through rain, sleet, or snow, it’s crucial to perform the necessary auto maintenance so your car runs smoothly. By making a small investment of time and money, you can ensure your vehicle keeps you safe all season long. Here are a few ways to prepare your car for winter — before the temperature falls below freezing.  

How Can You Prepare Your Car for Winter?

1. Anti-Freeze

Coolant — a mixture of antifreeze and water — doesn’t just keep your engine cool in the summer heat, it will also keep your engine from freezing during the winter and protect it from corrosion. The correct coolant ratio is typically 60% antifreeze and 40% distilled water. Your auto maintenance technician will recommend the best type of antifreeze for your vehicle’s cooling system.

2. Tires

Safe tires are crucial for winter driving. Cars that drive through snow and ice regularly should get studded snow tires for extra traction. Tire tread depth is also important in slick winter conditions, so you should have your car serviced by an auto mechanic to see if your tire tread is worn out and needs replacing. It’s also important to maintain proper tire pressure. Every 10 degree drop in temperature can result in a loss of 1 psi — because of this, you should check tire pressure regularly during the winter and add air as needed. The proper tire pressure for your vehicle can be found in your owner’s manual.

3. Battery

Your battery is more likely to die in the winter, as freezing temperatures can shorten your battery’s life. Before the temperatures drop, visit an auto maintenance technician for a battery test. Batteries that are more than four years old are at a higher risk of failing and may need to be replaced.

4. Lights

Shorter daylight hours, rain, and snow all make it harder to see in the winter, so it’s key to make sure your car’s lights are in excellent shape. If any bulbs are burned out, replace them before winter starts. If your headlights are foggy, visit an auto shop to have them cleaned or replaced.  

5. Oil Change

You should change your car’s oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. In winter, the recommended oil viscosity is 5W-30. A thinner oil will flow more easily in cold temperatures than the oil you use throughout the rest of the year. Visit an auto maintenance shop for the best recommendation for your vehicle.

Prepare your car for winter before the temperatures drop below freezing with the help of a reliable auto shop. Brothers Tire Sales in Kannapolis, NC, has provided residents of Cabarrus and Rowan counties with high-quality auto maintenance at affordable prices for more than 50 years. They carry a leading selection of tires from brands including Michelin®, BFGoodrich®, Goodyear, and Bridgestone®, ensuring your car is equipped to handle the toughest conditions. To schedule service for your vehicle, call (704) 933-2203, or visit them online to learn more.