10 Tips to Get Your Vehicle Ready for Winter

Winter is tough on you and your vehicle. Here are 10 tips to get your vehicle ready for winter.

1. Install New Wiper Blades

Snow and ice put a lot of strain on your wiper blades. Not to mention the muddy water kicked up by vehicles in front of you makes it hard to see. Replace your wiper blades to keep your windows clean.

2. Keep Washer Fluid Full

Without washer fluid, your wipers will probably just smear the muddy water around. The washer fluid can also help remove ice and frost from the window. Make sure your washer fluid is made to resist freezing.

3. Check Tire Tread 

Use the Quarter Test to check your tread. Find the grooves that go around your tire then turn Washington upside down and insert him headfirst into a groove. If you can see the top of his head, you should get new tires.

4. Check Tire Pressure

The temperature affects your tire pressure. Low tire pressure can cause breaking and driving problems. You can find the correct tire pressure for your tires on the inside of the driver’s doorjamb or in the owner’s manual. 

5. Keep the Gas Tank at Least Half Full

Ensure you have enough fuel in the tank for your safety. If your vehicle breaks down, if you have a flat tire, or if you run out of fuel, you could be stuck for hours, and you will need fuel to keep your vehicle running and warm.

6. Check Your Vehicle’s Battery

Make sure your battery is properly charged and in good shape for winter. It takes more electricity to start your car in the winter and it can drain your battery.

7. Check Your Vehicle’s Antifreeze

Your car needs the right amount of antifreeze to avoid freezing. If it is below 0 degrees, it could freeze. Your antifreeze should be registered for -30 degrees.

8. Clean All Debris From Your Car

Snow and ice can build up on cars. Defrost your windows and clear any build-up of snow off the vehicle and out of the wheel wells before driving. Salt from snowplows can build up on the bottom of your vehicle and cause rust. Make sure you wash your vehicle and especially under your vehicle regularly to prevent salt build.

9. Check Your Vehicle’s Brakes

When snow or ice is on the roads it takes longer to stop, and you might slide. Make sure your breaks are in good shape to help slow down.

10. Pack a Winter Safety Kit

If your vehicle breaks down, it’s important to have a safety kit. In winter, you should pack a first aid kit, flares, a flashlight, batteries, warm clothes, jumper cables, a bag of sand, a shovel, and extra antifreeze. These all will help you stay safe.

These tips can help keep your vehicle running in good condition and keep you safe and comfortable. Schedule your service appointment at Toyota of Warsaw to get new tires, check your vehicle’s battery, get fluids checked, and get your brakes checked. Click the link to schedule your service appointment.