How to Prep a Car for Winter

The change in season brings winter festivities and gatherings with family to the forefront of our minds, however, it also brings unpredictable road conditions. Whether you’re picking up gifts around Aztec or packing up for a long road trip, you should be prepared for the road by learning winter car prep tips from the Advantage Dodge Ram Chrysler Jeep FIAT service department. We’ve put together this guide for how to prep a car for winter, so you’re ready to face the chilly weather and icy roads for the season. 

Winter Car Prep Tips

From your quick trips to the store to your long treks out of Bloomfield, learning how to prep a car for winter gives you confidence and peace of mind during the ride. Here are the winter car prep tips you can follow to prepare:

• Check your battery: Before the weather changes, it’s a good idea to run a battery test as the chilly weather tends to make it harder for your car to start. Inspect the battery cables and terminals for cracks to see if you need a battery replacement. 
• Check your tire pressure: You’ll probably notice your tires deflating at the start of the cold season. As the temperature drops, it’s a good idea to add regular pressure checks to your trips around Shiprock. Not only does improper inflation decrease your gas mileage, but it also fails to give you the necessary traction you need. 
• Consider winter tires: For areas with heavier amounts of snow and ice, it’s a good idea to consider adding winter tires to your checklist. Winter tires add an improved grip, shorten your stopping distance, and provide you with increased control. 
• Regular brake checks: It’s also a good idea to add regular brake inspections during this season. Wet roads and ice can cause rust to build up and reduce your brake performance.
• Check your coolant levels: Ensure your engine is running smoothly by making sure you have enough coolant in your radiator. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual has the right coolant for your vehicle, and you can easily order it from the Advantage Dodge Ram Chrysler Jeep FIAT parts department. 
• Change your oil: Another factor of your smooth engine performance during the winter months is your engine oil. Since motor oil naturally thickens in cold weather, it’s a good idea to start the season off right by scheduling an oil change.  
• Fill your wiper fluid and replace the wiper blade: Salt and debris from the road can affect your visibility on Farmington roads. Consider freeze-resistant wiper fluid and heavy-duty wiper blades for the more harsh months. 
• Keep the tank topped off: An empty tank allows moisture to build up and leads to diluted fuel and more strain on your vehicle’s fuel pump and other parts. 
• Check your heater: Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you have to suffer during your daily commute. Make sure your heating system is functioning properly at the start of the winter season.

Schedule Your Winter Service with Advantage Dodge Ram Chrysler Jeep FIAT!

Tick off the items on your winter car prep lists with the team at Advantage Dodge Ram Chrysler Jeep FIAT. Our certified technicians and state-of-the-art facility are ready to handle what you need to get through the chilly months. Easily schedule your service online and be sure to take advantage of our parts specials to save on your next visit. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today!