8 Things Your Car Needs for Winter

Meteorologists are now calling it “weird weather,” i.e. bigger, badder, totally unpredictable snowstorms, with hailstones as big as baseballs, frogs falling from the sky, etc. Winter is coming, and given the fact that year to year, the weather only seems to get crazier, it makes sense for you to take the initiative to prepare your car for “weird weather” now, rather than later.

1. A visit to the mechanic:

   Before it gets too cold, tie a bow around a six pack of manly beer, and head over to your favorite mechanic to get your car checked out. If you’re mechanic is a woman, check first to see if she prefers wine over beer. Ask your mechanic to check out your car’s battery, since cold temperatures and higher load increase the chances of a battery breakdown, antifreeze level, thermostat, and defroster.

2. A brake check:

   But you’re not done yet. Your car’s brakes need to be in optimal condition in order for you to keep your car under control on slick and snow-covered roads. Ask your mechanic for a full inspection of your car’s brakes, so you’re sure each component is checked and tested. Manufacturers recommend flushing a car’s brake system and installing new fluid every two to three years. Your car’s owner’s manual will tell you how often to do this for your particular model.

3. A tire check:

   Worn tread on your car’s tires could potentially lead to an accident or worse. Depending on where you live in the country and its potential for “weird weather,” replacing your tires with snow tires may be necessary. Once again, visit a mechanic if you need help determining the condition of your tires.

4. Light inspection:

   While driving, especially at night, falling sleet and snow can make it almost impossible for you to see or to be seen by other drivers. Schedule times throughout the winter months to check your car’s front and rear lights and confirm your flashing hazard lights are working as well.

5. Winter windshield wiper blades:

   Generally speaking, it’s a good idea to change your windshield wiper blades every six to 12 months. But of course, you may need to do this more often, depending on what part of the country you live in. To best deal with sleet and snow, instead of regular blades, purchase winter wiper blades which will wipe away ice and the white stuff much more effectively.

6. Oil and oil filter change:

   Before that first snowstorm, go ahead and change out your oil and oil filter. Clean engine oil will help your engine start when the temperature goes down to the single digits or below. The old adage that says you need to change the oil every 3,000 miles is no longer true; mechanics suggest 7,500 to 10,000 miles instead. Your owner’s manual may recommend you use specific type of oil for optimal engine operation during the winter months.

7. A check on the engine’s belts and hoses:

   Before you head over to your favorite mechanic, pop your car’s hood and take a look at the engine’s belts and hoses. If any look cracked or worn out, buy a replacement. Cold weather can be especially brutal on an already worn or cracked hose, and a replacement is not expensive.

8. Wash and wax:

   Finally, road salt will damage your car’s paint. Treat your car to a wash and wax before the weather gets too cold and the salt trucks start making their rounds. After a particularly bad storm and grueling winter drive, take time to get your car rinsed off, which will help protect its paint.

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