Winter weather brings a variety of problems for vehicle owners. Extreme temperatures and dangerous driving conditions paired with increased travel for the holidays make accidents and breakdowns much more likely. Luckily there are some simple auto maintenance tips to keep your car safe this winter and avoid costly repairs.

Winter Auto Maintenance Checklist

1. Monitor Your Tires

As the temperature drops, the air inside your tires condenses. Because of this, it can be difficult to tell if your tires are properly inflated. When they don’t have the right pressure, tires wear down quicker and overheat. This can lead to tread separation. Ensure they are always inflated to the recommended level listed in the owner’s manual.

It’s also essential to check the tire’s tread depth. One popular method is the penny test. Put the coin in the tire’s tread with Lincoln's head upside down; if you can see all of the head, the depth is less than 2/32 inch, and the tire needs replacing. If the tires are too worn down, they can’t get as much traction on the road; this is especially problematic during snow and ice storms.

2. Test the Battery

Winter weather is problematic for car batteries; the engine needs more current than usual to start in cold weather. If you don’t have a voltmeter, get the battery tested at an auto repair shop. Typically, a car battery lasts between three and five years; if the charge is too low, replace it.

You can protect your car’s battery by keeping it out of the elements as often as possible. The colder it is outside, the harder it is to start the battery; at 32 degrees, a battery will lose about 35% of its strength. When possible, park your vehicle in the garage or use a car cover.

3. Protect the Windshield

You need to see clearly through the windshield in winter, and that’s where the wipers come into play. Check the blades frequently and change them if you notice streaks or large patches of debris remaining. Clean off the blades if you notice a lot of road salt; it can damage the wipers and windshield since it’s corrosive.

Make sure there are no cracks or chips in the windshield. If moisture gets inside and freezes when temperatures drop, the expanding moisture makes these worse.

Get all of the auto maintenance you need to stay safe this winter with the experts at Jim’s Auto Clinic in Cincinnati, OH. For more than 40 years, they’ve provided local drivers with everything they need to keep their vehicles on the road. From oil changes to brake service, they make sure your car is ready for the cold season. Schedule an appointment by calling (513) 662-6696 or learn more online.