Ready for Winter? 6 Steps to Winter Car Preparation 

Winter driving can be daunting in Northeast Ohio, especially when the weather turns to snow and ice. At Tire Source, we care for more than cars. We want our community to drive safely on the icy roads.  

That’s why we believe that preparing your car for winter is a smart investment that can help you avoid accidents and ensure safe, smooth driving.  

In this article, we'll equip you with some essential tips and tricks to prepare your car for winter. Think of it as a quick checklist to winterize your car before the weather turns on us.  

1. Check the Battery & Electrical System 

Did you know that low temperatures can significantly affect the battery and reduce its capacity and power? That’s why it’s so important to test your battery strength and have your battery terminals cleaned. This helps to prevent corrosion and ensure a good connection.  

While you, or a maintenance technician, are doing this, it’s a good idea to also check your electrical system. Make sure your headlights, taillights, turn signals, heater, and defroster to are working properly.  

By checking these systems before winter weather sets in, you can be sure that you won’t need to wait long for your car to defrost or be stranded in a cold parking lot with a dead battery. 

2. Inspect & Maintain Tires 

When the temperature changes drastically, it can also affect your tire pressure. It’s a good idea to check the tire pressure as well as the tread on your tires. Look for the wear bars to indicate whether you are within the recommended tread guidelines. Since your tires are the only point of contact with the road, it’s essential to have good traction, especially on snowy or icy roads.  

If you live in a location with steep hills or considerable snow, then you might consider switching to winter tires. These are designed to improve your traction on winter roads. You can talk to a Tire Source specialist to see if winter tires are right for you. And while you’re doing that, be sure to ask a technician to rotate your tires to ensure even wear and tear.  

Curious about other tire tips? Check out these 5 essential tire care tips. 

3. Check Fluid Levels 

As part of your winter car preparation, be sure to check your fluid levels. Here are the critical fluids to check:  

Engine oil  

Inspect your engine oil to make sure it's at the recommended type of lubrication for cold-weather.  

Coolant  

Low coolant levels can freeze and cause engine damage.  

Windshield washer fluid  

Verify your windshield washer fluid levels. Additionally, we recommend switching to winter-specific fluid to prevent freezing.  

Brake and power steering fluid 

Finally, check your brake and power steering fluid levels to ensure optimal braking performance and steering response. 

4. Prepare the Exterior 

Snow, ice and salt can wreak havoc on your car's exterior during the winter, leading to rust and decay. That’s why it's so important to take steps to protect your vehicle.  

First, we recommend cleaning and waxing your vehicle's exterior to prevent paint damage. Next, check your windshield wipers and replace any worn-out blades to ensure clear visibility during snow or rain. Consider using a windshield cover to prevent frost buildup, which can save you precious time during morning commutes. Finally, apply silicone spray to door and trunk seals to help keep out moisture and cold air.  

5. Prepare the Interior 

During the winter months, it’s easy to see the snow, slush and salt that all too often gets tracked into your car. One way to prevent this is to install rubber floor mats to prevent mud and salt from staining your carpet.  

And don’t forget – make sure your vehicle's emergency kit is stocked with essentials like a flashlight, blankets and a first-aid kit. Always be prepared for the unexpected.  

6. Tips for Driving in Winter Conditions 

Even with a well-prepared car, winter driving can be challenging. Be sure to drive slower on icy roads and maintain a safe following distance to allow for longer braking distances. Be extra cautious on icy roads and bridges, where traction is reduced.  

Driving defensively and being prepared for unexpected situations is key to making it safely through winter. 

Find your neighborhood Tire Source 

Preparing your car for winter isn't just a matter of comfort – it's a matter of safety. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can make sure that your car is ready to handle even the toughest winter weather conditions.  

Don't wait until it's too late – take your vehicle to a Tire Source near you for a thorough winter checkup today.