Time to Prep for Winter! 7 Tips
As the temperature drops and the first signs of frost appear in North Idaho, it’s time to prepare your vehicle for the long winter ahead. Snowy and icy roads and sub-freezing temperatures can pose serious challenges for drivers. Still, with some preparation and the right equipment, you can prepare your car to handle anything winter brings.
At Mike White Ford, we love many things about winter, but it’s a lot more enjoyable if you know your car can handle the conditions so you stay safe and warm. Here are some essential car maintenance tips and safety measures to keep you safe and mobile all season long.
1. Check Your Tires – Traction Is Everything
Your tires are the only parts of your vehicle that make direct contact with the road, making them one of the most critical components for winter safety. As snow and ice start to coat the roads, the right tires can be the difference between a smooth drive and a hazardous one. Before winter hits, check your tires’ tread depth and overall condition. The minimum safe tread depth is 6/32″ for winter driving, but deeper is always better when it comes to snow. If your tires are worn, consider investing in a set of winter tires designed to provide enhanced traction in snow and slush.
You may want to opt for studded tires if you regularly travel through deep snow or live in a more rural area. They offer maximum traction on icy roads but are only permitted during certain times of the year, so check local regulations.
2. Keep Your Battery in Check
Cold temperatures can strain your car’s battery, and nothing is worse than being stranded in sub-zero weather with a vehicle that won’t start. Test your battery to ensure it has sufficient charge and functions correctly. If your battery is over three years old, consider replacing it preemptively. Also, take a moment to inspect all the battery terminals and cables for signs of corrosion, as this can impede their ability to deliver power.
3. Top Off and Switch Fluids
Winter weather requires different fluids to keep your vehicle in top shape. Start by switching to a winter-grade oil if your manufacturer recommends it. Winter-grade oils have a lower viscosity, which means they flow more easily at colder temperatures and ensure your engine is adequately lubricated on chilly mornings.
Next, check your antifreeze levels. Antifreeze (which also acts as a coolant in summer) prevents your engine from freezing and helps regulate temperature. Ensure it’s filled to the correct levels and has the right water-to-antifreeze ratio (typically 50/50).
Remember to fill your windshield washer fluid reservoir with a solution rated for sub-zero temperatures. Regular windshield wiper fluid can freeze on contact with your windshield in extreme cold, leaving you without visibility when you need it most.
4. Inspect Your Wipers and Lights
Visibility is critical when navigating snowy or rainy conditions, so make sure your wipers and lights are in top working order. Replace wipers that are streaking or leaving gaps, and consider installing heavy-duty winter wipers designed to handle snow and ice. Similarly, check that all your exterior lights function correctly and replace any burnt-out bulbs. Consider upgrading to high-visibility bulbs for your headlights to cut through snowstorms and dark winter nights.
5. Build a Winter Emergency Kit
Preparing for the unexpected is a big part of staying safe on the road. Build a winter emergency kit and keep it in your trunk or back seat. Some essential items to include are:
- A sturdy ice scraper and snow brush
- Jumper cables
- A small shovel for digging out of snowbanks
- Sand or cat litter to provide traction on icy patches if your tires get stuck or you slide
- Extra warm clothing and blankets
- High-energy snacks and bottled water
- A flashlight and extra batteries
- A first-aid kit
- Road flares or reflective triangles
Having these items on hand can make a tremendous difference if you find yourself stuck on the side of the road in a snowstorm.
6. Have Your Brakes and Suspension Inspected
With slippery and uneven roads, your brakes and suspension system must be in peak condition. A pre-winter brake inspection can help identify worn-out components that need replacing. The suspension system is equally important; it helps maintain tire contact with the road and affects your overall handling. If you notice odd noises, vibrations, or pulling, don’t wait until the first snow falls; get it checked out now.
7. Prepare for Icy Roads
Lastly, make sure your vehicle is equipped to handle slick, icy conditions. For many drivers in North Idaho, an all-wheel drive (AWD) or 4-wheel drive (4WD) vehicle is essential for tackling unplowed roads or navigating through hilly areas. If your current car isn’t cutting it in the snow, consider upgrading to a vehicle better suited for winter driving.
Visit Mike White Ford!
Is your vehicle ready to take on the winter? If not, now is the time to get it serviced before the snow really starts. At Mike White Ford in Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint, we offer comprehensive winter preparation services, including tire replacement, brake inspections, battery tests, and more. Plus, if you’re looking to upgrade your ride, we have a wide selection of AWD and 4WD vehicles in stock that are perfect for North Idaho’s rugged winter roads. Visit us today to schedule a service appointment or take a test drive to find your ideal winter vehicle. Stay safe, stay prepared, and we’ll see you on the road this winter!