Winter Car Care Tips

Replace your windshield wipers

If you are driving in the rain or snow, particularly at night, your windshield wipers are literally what’s allowing you to see the road, as well as oncoming cars, pedestrians and the occasional dog crossing the street. If your wipers aren’t keeping your windshield water- and streak-free, then it’s time for a replacement. Be aware that if you have icy winters, the road salt that accumulates on your windshield throughout the winter may make it necessary to replace them again at the end of the season.

Make sure your heating system and defroster are up to par

During the summer and maybe even the fall, you haven’t had to rely much on your heater or defroster. This all changes when November or December rolls around, though! Even if it’s not too cold in your area yet, test both of these functions, and have your car serviced if the heat is not blowing hot or if the defroster seems weak.

Check your battery

A weak car battery can hold a charge better during mild weather than it can during extremely cold weather, so you might be surprised if one morning, your car simply refuses to turn over. Bringing the car to an auto mechanic for a quick check should be cheap (or even free), and it will pay off if you know that you need to replace the battery now, before getting stranded somewhere.

Replace worn tires

Whether you go to winter tires or simply use regular ones, make sure that the treads on your tires are deep enough to create friction. Balding tires are extremely hazardous on wet, snowy or icy roads. Do whatever you can to improve your handling and control of your car when the conditions aren’t the best for driving!

Pack a survival kit

During the coldest months, you’re at increased risk if your car breaks down. A space blanket will keep you warm, and flares will help you to attract attention if you break down. A bag of kitty litter in the trunk will both add some weight to your vehicle and will act as tread if you get stuck in the snow.