Winterize Your Car In Just 4 Easy Steps

Winter is an intense season for any vehicle. Dangerous snowstorms, icy roads, cold temperatures, harsh blizzards- all of these conditions contribute to a lot of wear and tear. From frozen fluids to oxidized paint, there’s a lot of preparation involved in winterizing your car if you want to avoid major damage. 

Here are a few simple ways that you can be proactive and winterize your car. By following these steps, you likely won’t have to face big repairs with big price tags.

1. Check Your Tires

An influx in cold temperatures will cause your tires to deflate and become distorted in their shape. There are two ways you can resolve this issue so that you can protect yourself against the risk of driving on icy roads.

The first solution is to frequently check your tire pressure so that you can fight against the loss of air that comes with the freezing weather. Another option is to purchase winter tires that have more intense grip and traction than average tires. 

2. Wash Your Car Frequently

If you often have to park your car outside, it will constantly be exposed to the elements. Snow piles on top of your car’s paint, and ice clings to your car windows.

Regularly going to the car wash will help prevent snow and ice from eroding the exterior of your vehicle. If you don’t wash your car after a major exposure to winter conditions, you run the risk of having oxidized paint by the time spring comes around. 

3. Upgrade Your Windshield Wipers

The biggest risk when driving during the winter months is not having the visibility necessary to see the cars around you. If you want your car to function at its best, ensure that you can see the road as best as possible.

Upgrade your windshield wipers so that they can handle intense snowfall and ice storms. If your windshield wipers aren’t strong enough to handle the heavy-duty cold, it could pose a threat to your safety. 

4. Stay Prepared

In case of an emergency, it’s crucial that you have an emergency kit on hand with all the supplies you need to endure a major snowstorm. Winter weather can be unpredictable, and you don’t want to be stuck by yourself in the cold if there are bad road conditions and low visibility while driving. 

Helpful things to pack include jumper cables, an ice scraper, antifreeze, and extra warm clothing. It’s best to have the tools to face the worst-case scenario whether or not you end up actually using them. Having a kit like this in your car also brings additional peace of mind when driving long distances in these cold months.