Winter tends to be the harshest season for cars. As a responsible owner, you should invest in proper vehicle maintenance to ensure your car holds up in the difficult weather. Here’s a rundown of the top tasks to add to your winter prep checklist.

Winter Preparation Checklist

1. Winter Maintenance Tasks

Due to the harsh weather, your car battery is especially vulnerable during winter. Before it gets truly cold, one of the best vehicle maintenance practices is to have your technician fully charge the battery. The cold will render it dead at a moment’s notice if you’re not careful.

2. Change Wiper Fluid

When the snow starts falling, your wipers should clear away the debris. By replacing your fluid and having your auto shop add a winterized product, you will have peace of mind that you’ll see when the storm comes.

3. Oil Change

Since winter is a stressful time for your engine, you should support it in every way you can. The core vehicle maintenance task to complete is taking your car in for an oil change. That will ensure your engine is well-lubricated and prepared for the extra work. You may need to come back again sooner than usual because the excess moisture from the cold can dilute the oil. 

4. Add an Emergency Kit

You should always prepare for something to go wrong on the road. If you need to wait for help on the road, having a few essentials will make a significant difference. Add an emergency kit to your trunk, packing blankets, water, snacks, and a first aid kit. 

 5. Inflate Your Tires

Check your owner’s manual for the exact recommended PSI for winter and then pump your tires to that level. On the slick roads, you’ll need as much traction as possible and driving around with underinflated tires is a recipe for an accident. 

When planning vehicle maintenance for winter, head right to Reffitt's Garage & Towing Service, Auto Body Repair, LLC, in Hamilton, OH. Serving the community for over 40 years, the professionals will help with everything from an oil change to engine repair. Set up an appointment with the experienced team by calling (513) 863-3008. Learn more about the shop by visiting their website.