10 Step Essential Checklist to Winterize Your Vehicle

Texas winter storms are hard on your vehicle’s systems, but icy weather doesn’t have to ruin your holidays!

With the cold weather posing additional demands and potential aggravation of existing issues, it’s crucial to prepare your car for the winter elements. Here’s a comprehensive 10-step checklist:

1. Thorough Standard Maintenance Inspection: Ensure your car’s overall maintenance is up-to-date. A comprehensive inspection covering brakes, belts, hoses, engine, exhaust system, fluids, and filters is essential for ensuring optimal performance in cold conditions. Regularly change your oil and filter.
2. Battery Health Check: In extremely cold temperatures, your car’s battery is under increased demand to start the engine. To prevent a cold morning with a dead battery, our technicians can perform a battery load test. Keep an eye out for cracked or corroded battery cables and terminals.
3. Windshield Wipers and Fluid Management: Replace worn-out windshield wiper blades and ensure an ample supply of windshield wiper fluid. Running out of fluid during the first snowstorm is a common mistake. Opt for freeze-resistant wiper fluid and consider using rubber-clad blades to combat ice buildup. Always keep quality ice scrapers and snow brushes in your car.
4. Heater and Defroster Functionality: Maintain a comfortable driving experience and clear visibility by ensuring your heater and defroster are in good working order. Functional air conditioning is also crucial for effective defrost operation. If your windows fog up, activate the fresh air button.
5. Tire Inspection and Consideration of Snow Tires: Regularly inspect tires for remaining tread life, uneven wear, and damage. Check sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Consider investing in snow tires if you reside in an area prone to heavy snowfall. Snow tires, with their softer rubber and specialized treads, provide optimal traction in cold temperatures.
6. Monitor Tire Pressure: Properly inflated tires are vital for winter conditions. Check tire pressure monthly, allowing your tires to cool before inspection. Cold weather can lead to a decrease in tire pressure, approximately 1 PSI per 10 degrees. Consult your owner’s manual for the recommended pressure (commonly this ranges between 30-35 PSI) and follow tire rotation recommendations from your technician.
7. Regular Oil Changes: Combat cold-induced oil thickening by scheduling regular oil changes. Consider using a thinner oil during the coldest winter stretches, but always refer to your owner’s manual or consult your our technicians for suitability.
8. Belt and Hose Inspection: Cold temperatures can weaken belts and hoses critical to your engine’s operation. Regularly inspect these components for cracks or signs of wear and tear to prevent breakdowns.
9. Post-Snowstorm Car Cleaning: After a snowstorm, take your car for a touchless car wash, including an underbody rinse, to remove magnesium chloride used for deicing roads. While less corrosive than road salt, it can still cause damage to your vehicle.
10. Equip Your Car with an Emergency Kit: Despite thorough planning, winter weather can still catch you off guard. Safeguard yourself by having an emergency kit in your car, stocked with blankets, flares, a jack, a first-aid kit, flashlight, shovel, non-perishable food, and kitty litter or sand for traction if you find yourself stuck.