Temperatures are dropping as we approach the cold Chicago winter. We prepare our homes and our wardrobes for the bitter cold ahead of us, but so many of us forget one crucial thing that needs to be addressed before winter: our cars. As we descend into the winter months, keep your vehicle in mind! After all, there are few things worse than your vehicle breaking down in the dead of winter. Now is the time to prepare your car for snow, ice, and cold temps. Follow our tips below to winterize your car to have it running at its optimal level from the first sign of snowflakes through spring!
Heater & Defroster
Check to make sure your car’s heater and defroster are working by turning it on. The last thing you want is to drive around in a car without heat all winter! If they are not working, take the vehicle into the shop and get it fixed immediately!
Windshield Wipers
Make sure your windshield wipers are ready to handle snow, sleet, and ice this winter. Consider replacing old wiper blades with winter rubber-clad blades. Also check to see if your windshield wiper fluid is full. You’ll go through plenty of this during the winter. On that note, make sure that you’ve got your ice scraper and brush within reach to clean off your car in the morning!
Battery
You’ll want a professional to check to see whether your battery is up-to-snuff for the winter. A weak battery is more prone to dying during colder months. To keep up on maintenance for your battery, regularly remove corrosion from posts and cable connections, and retighten connections.
Tires
Checking your tire pressure, tire tread, and uneven wearing is paramount to your car running smoothly this winter. Check the owner’s manual to see where tire pressure should be. Rotate your tires frequently, and make sure to check the spare when checking the other four tires. You may even want to consider investing in snow tires.
Brakes
Get your breaks checked before the snow starts to fall. Snow and ice are the cause numerous accidents every year. If your car’s brakes are not up-to-par during the winter months, you’re risking the safety of everyone in your vehicle and everyone else on the road. Do the smart thing and make sure your brakes are in proper working order before it gets too cold.
