Top 8 Car Care Tips To Get You Ready for Winter Season

Winter is just around the corner. For many car owners, that also means the challenges and fear of winter car ownership are just around the corner too. A number of breakdowns are likely to happen throughout the season.

However, many people are aware of the safety rules for driving in unpredictable weather, such as driving at slow speed, turning on lights, and keeping safe while driving in heavy rain. But they miss knowing the essentials their vehicle needs during the season.

There is no avoiding driving under certain climate conditions, and it is important to protect your car during this harsh weather to avoid unexpected damage.

Just a few minutes of maintenance and checks could help your vehicle endure the worst the weather has to offer.

And for that, we have gathered a list of the top 8 car care tips to get it ready and maintain its condition during this season.

1. Check your Car Engine Oil

2. Check your Car’s Battery Life

3. Check your Vehicle Radiator

4. Check the Windshield Washer Fluid

5. Check the Windshield Wipers

6. Check your Car Tires

7. Check for any Exterior Corrosions

8. Check your Emergency Kit

1. Check your Car Engine Oil

With temperature changes during this season, your car’s engine oil takes on greater importance than you might think!

In order for your car to perform well throughout the colder time of the year, you will need to check your engine oil level to guarantee that the level isn't too low and that it has the best possible consistency as well.

Also, selecting an engine oil that's too thin will not provide sufficient protection for your engine, as going with an oil that's too thick will challenge your engine to start fast in cold weather.

So, always remember to check your vehicle owner's manual to make sure you are using the recommended oil type, grade, and viscosity accordingly.

2. Check your Car’s Battery Life

Winter puts more pressure on your battery, especially if you leave your vehicle outside.

The risk of battery failure is greater in rainy, freezing, cold, and icy weather, since cold and rainy weather can place stress on your car’s battery, as humidity can cause corrosion and drain it overnight.

Normally, your car battery lifespan would decrease by 1 to 2 years during the rainy season, and it would decrease by 1 to 3 years during the cold season.

So, avoid the frustration of hearing nothing when you start your car by regularly checking the battery and charging system. Workshops don't charge much to test your battery, and some auto-parts stores will do it for free.

3. Check your Vehicle Radiator

Along with unpredictable weather and road conditions, cold weather can cause major problems for your car’s radiator.

Cold weather can cause your radiator to contract, which will put strain on your hose clamps—an essential component that prevents the engine from overheating, reduces friction, and ensures that the coolant can enter and leave the radiator without any leaks.

Because of that, if your radiator isn't filled to the correct level with the ideal antifreeze and coolant, the fluid could freeze, causing a leak or even making the transmission fail.

Remember, checking the radiator and antifreeze early or taking your vehicle for a winter check can save you from all of this headache.

4. Check the Windshield Washer Fluid

Have you been adding pure water in the windshield washer fluid tank? Possibly a bit? No matter if you think pure water is good for the environment or you're just trying to save some bucks, this is a bad idea!

Extreme weather temperatures, pure water, or even regular washer fluid may freeze on your windshield and could even freeze and clog the washer hoses, which would lead to obstructed vision while driving.

That's why it is always recommended to use the right washer fluid formula, which contains a proper mixture of chemicals like antifreeze and other additives.

Always give yourself an extra layer of protection by checking the washer fluid level and filling it with the right fluid. There are few things more annoying or risky than having your windshield frosted, foggy, or covered in road debris.

5. Check the Windshield Wipers

Good visibility is essential for safe driving, with approximately 20% of road accidents caused by poor visibility. That’s why windshield wipers, along with other essential components, are vital for your driving safety.

Harsh weather conditions can stiffen and damage your windshield wiper blades, making them brittle.

Using the right wipers that perform ideally is essential to maintain the best driving visibility, as they keep your windscreen free of any obstructions during rainy, snowy, or foggy days.

Even with top care, it’s possible that your wipers will become ripped or torn. Regularly check your wipers for gaps, worn bits, rust, or damage. Visibility is crucial for your safety, so don't compromise on your windshield wipers.

6. Check your Car Tires

Good car tires are key to steering and braking, which are essential to your vehicle's safety.

Unfortunately, tires are often underestimated, especially their tread. Most road accidents during harsh weather conditions are caused by worn-down tires that couldn't stop the car quickly enough.

New tires have a tread depth of 8 to 9 millimeters, and it’s recommended to change your tires once the tread wears down to 1.6 millimeters. However, during winter, it’s recommended to change them once the tread reaches 3 millimeters.

Before hitting the road, check your tires to ensure they have enough tread to handle any weather conditions. If your car has a tread-wear indicator, it will notify you when it’s time to change them.

7. Check for any Exterior Corrosions

Your car’s exterior takes the brunt of harsh winter weather, from dirt and debris to rainfall and snow.

Over time, these elements can build up and become harder to clean, leading to corrosion and rust. Avoiding this buildup can lower the chances of rust formation.

Paint acts as a protective layer for your car, and any exposed exterior is vulnerable to rust and corrosion damage, especially during unpredictable weather. Be sure to check for scratches or damages and clean your car regularly to prevent long-term damage.

Don’t forget the bottom half of the vehicle! Since it faces the most road debris, dirt, and contaminants, it’s more susceptible to corrosion, which could affect your car’s safety.

8. Check your Emergency Kit

Lastly, always keep an emergency kit in your car during winter.

In case you find yourself stranded on a deserted road in bad weather, you’ll be glad you thought ahead.

A basic winter emergency kit could include:

Phone charger
Towing cables
Jumper cables
Flashlight
Raincoat and umbrella
Blanket
First aid kit
Snacks, energy bars, and water
Shovel and ice scraper
Warning triangles
Extra warm clothing