Before heading out on the road for holiday travel, it’s important to make sure your car is ready for winter conditions. Cold weather, icy roads, and long highway miles can push your vehicle harder than usual. A few preventive checks and services can go a long way in avoiding breakdowns or delays during one of the busiest driving seasons of the year.
Here’s a simple yet essential winter maintenance checklist to keep your car dependable and safe for holiday travel.
Inspect the Battery and Charging System
Car batteries lose strength in cold weather. If your battery is more than three years old, now is the time to have it tested. A weak battery can easily fail after a cold night, leaving you stranded when you need your car most.
In addition to checking the battery itself, have your alternator and charging system inspected to ensure everything is operating as it should. Clean any corrosion from the battery terminals and make sure the cables are tight.
Check Antifreeze and Cooling System Health
Your engine's cooling system protects it from both overheating and freezing. Make sure your coolant level is correct and the mixture is properly balanced. Antifreeze not only lowers the freezing point of the fluid but also protects against corrosion inside the engine.
A technician can test the condition of the coolant and flush the system if it’s dirty or past its service interval. This is a key step in preventing costly damage to your radiator, water pump, and other components.
Inspect the Tires and Tire Pressure
Good tires are critical for safe winter driving. Check the tread depth and look for signs of uneven wear or cracking. Tires with low tread are more likely to lose grip on wet, snowy, or icy roads.
Cold temperatures cause tire pressure to drop, so it’s also important to check and adjust the pressure regularly. Refer to the label inside your driver’s door for the recommended PSI.
Test the Heater and Defroster
You rely on your heater and defroster for comfort and visibility during winter drives. If either system isn’t working correctly, have it repaired before your trip. A weak defroster can make it difficult to see through a fogged windshield, especially during early mornings or rainy weather.
Top Off Fluids and Replace Windshield Wipers
Make sure all fluids are full, including engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. In winter, it’s best to use washer fluid formulated to prevent freezing.
Also, replace worn or streaking windshield wipers with a winter-grade set. Visibility is critical during snow and rain, and fresh wipers can make a big difference.
Inspect Belts and Hoses
Cold weather can make rubber components brittle and more likely to crack. Have your technician inspect the serpentine belt and all coolant hoses for signs of wear, fraying, or leaks. If any part looks worn or aged, replacing it now can prevent a breakdown later.
Check Lights and Brakes
Make sure all your exterior lights are working properly, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. With fewer daylight hours in winter, visibility becomes even more important.
You should also have your brake system inspected. Good brakes are essential for stopping safely on slippery roads. Listen for squealing or grinding sounds and have your pads and rotors checked if you notice anything unusual.
Pack an Emergency Kit
Even with good preparation, winter travel can bring surprises. An emergency kit with items like jumper cables, a flashlight, warm blankets, gloves, water, and basic tools can be a lifesaver if you get stuck or stranded. A portable phone charger or power bank is also helpful in case your phone battery runs low.
Schedule Winter Prep With Tveten’s Auto Clinic in Lakewood, WA
Before you hit the road for the holidays, stop by Tveten’s Auto Clinic for a winter maintenance check. Our team will inspect your battery, fluids, tires, and other key systems to ensure your car is ready for whatever the weather brings.
Let us help you travel safely and confidently this season. Schedule your appointment with
Tveten’s Auto Clinic in Lakewood today.
