How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter

Looking to learn about preparing your vehicle for winter? Good for you! If you’ve got a used car with miles ramped up, you may be at a higher risk. So check out the main points to check off, here at Midway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram near Grand Island:

• Pack a Winter Supply Box
• Check Your Coolant and Antifreeze
• Check the Tire Pressure and Tread Depth
• Switch to Winter-Grade Oil and Wiper Fluid
• Have the Battery Tested
• Check the Headlights and Brake Lights

Buying a new vehicle with AWD or 4WD in Kearney can help conquer even the snowiest of roads, but you should still be prepared.

Pack a Winter Supply Box

Follow the Boy Scout motto by keeping these items in your car:

• Flashlight
• Road Flares
• First-Aid Kit
• Extra Gloves
• Warm Clothes
• A Radio
• A Charged Cell Phone
• A Bag of Sand/Cat Litter or Carpet Sections for Traction
• Extra Ice Scraper
• High-Energy Snacks (Such as cereal bars and jerky)

Check Your Coolant and Antifreeze

Antifreeze keeps your engine from freezing when temperatures drop. Check the level yourself or have it checked at a service centre. Coolant and antifreeze should be available at every auto supply store.

Check the Tire Pressure and Tread Depth

Insert a penny into your tire’s tread with the top of Lincoln’s head pointing inward. If you can still see his head, you should replace your tires. Even if you can’t, make sure you check the tire pressure – changing temperatures can affect it. Check out our Tire Center if you’ve got more questions.

Switch to Winter-Grade Oil and Wiper Fluid

The colder the weather, the thinner you need your oil. When winter is coming, consider switching to oil with a lower cold weather viscosity grade. You’ll also want to switch to winter wiper fluid to prevent freezing.

Have the Battery Tested

Your battery’s capacity decreases significantly in colder weather, so checking it right before winter makes sense. You’ll also want to park in a garage instead of in the freezing cold if you want to protect your battery. Additionally, be sure the battery in your key fob is working so you have remote start functionality.

Check the Headlights and Brake Lights

Headlights and brake lights need to deal with thick winter fog or snow. Check for any cracks or discoloration.

Getting Your Car Winter-Safe is Extremely Important

Can the temperatures drop and the roads turn icy as winter hits Kearney? Yep, and there’s nothing you can do to prevent it – but you can make sure your car is prepared. Need any further advice or assistance? From financing to service, we’re always here to help – feel free to contact us today.

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