Winter brings snow, icy roads, and frigid air, and these factors can pose dangerous driving conditions if you aren’t prepared. While a mechanic can equip you with all of the essential cold-weather tuneups, it’s still important for you to understand why they’re needed. Here are a few ways to get the vehicle ready for the chilly season ahead.

How to Prepare Your Car for Cold Weather

1. Change & Check the Tires

Replace the set with a winterized version. These models are made with a softer rubber and stay flexible even in frigid conditions. They’re also designed with unique tread patterns that grip ice and snow better than an all-season tire.

Cold weather also constricts air, so it’ll decrease the tires’ air pressure. Use a gauge to check the pressure every two weeks to avoid under-inflation, which doesn’t provide enough traction on snowy roads.

2. Get an Oil Change

Add new, clean oil to the car before winter arrives. Cold weather thickens the fluid and reduces its effectiveness, especially if it’s clouded with dirt particles. The mechanics will likely add oil with a thinner viscosity so that it can continue lubricating the engine effectively in cold temperatures.

3. Replace the Fluids

If you live in an area that experiences a lot of snow, change the wiper fluid to a de-icing variety. This liquid is formulated with special chemicals that prevent the fluid from freezing in the reservoir—it can also melt the snow and ice on auto glass.

Coolant will prevent the engine from freezing. In the winter, you should swap to a formula that won’t turn to ice; otherwise, it may burst and damage the auto heating and cooling system.

If you want professional help winterizing your car, turn to Professional Automotive in Anchorage, AK. These mechanics help drivers prepare their vehicles for cold weather by providing oil changes, snow tires, and fluid replacements. They’re experienced and ASE®-certified, and they’ll make sure the adjustments are compatible with your make and model. To get more information about their services, visit them online or call (907) 562-2471.