Top Tips for Winter Car Maintenance

By the Mercury Team

Winter is coming, and the cold weather, icy roads, and road salt can take a toll on your vehicle. Before the snow starts to fall and temperatures plummet, you need to ensure your car is ready for the season. Winter car maintenance might sound like a hassle, but a little preparation now can save you from big problems later. Let’s go over some of the steps you can take to get your car winter-ready

Why Winter Car Maintenance is Important

Winter can be rough on your car. Cold weather can drain your battery faster than usual - making it harder to start your car, while road salt can corrode metal parts and cause rust if left unchecked. And let’s not forget how icy roads can wear down your tires and make it tougher to get the grip you need for safe driving.

That’s why caring for your car before winter hits is so important. Simple things like testing your battery, checking your tire tread, and making sure your fluids are topped off can save you from a lot of headaches later.

Winter Car Maintenance Checklist

Getting your car ready for winter doesn’t have to be complicated, but covering the basics is essential to keep things running smoothly when the temperatures drop. Here’s a quick checklist to help you out:

Check Your Tire Pressure and Tread

Cold air can cause your tire pressure to drop, which means less traction on those icy roads. Check your tire pressure to ensure they’re properly inflated, and take a close look at the tread so it’s deep enough to handle snow and ice. An easy way to check the tread is to do the penny test: just place a penny in the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread might be too worn for safe winter driving.

Inspect Your Battery

When temperatures drop, your battery has to work extra hard just to get your car started, especially on those freezing mornings. If your battery is getting old, it’s even more likely to give out when you need it most. That’s why it’s smart to get it tested before the cold really sets in. A quick test can tell you if it’s up for the challenge, and if not, swapping it out now can save you from those frustrating no-start mornings.

Make Sure Your Brakes Are Winter-Ready

Snow, ice, and slick roads can make stopping distances much longer, so make sure your brakes are in top condition. If you hear squeaking or grinding when you press the pedal, it’s probably time to replace your brake pads. And if the brakes feel soft or squishy when you use them, that’s a sign they need some attention, too. It’s also a good idea to inspect your brake fluid to ensure it’s at the right level and free of moisture, which can freeze and impact your braking performance.

Winter Car Maintenance Tips for Fluid Levels

Cold weather can affect everything from your antifreeze to your motor oil, so check your fluids to make sure they’re topped off and working as they should.

• Antifreeze: Antifreeze prevents your engine from freezing up when it’s cold outside. Make sure the level is right and the mixture is balanced (usually a 50/50 blend of water and antifreeze) to keep your engine running smoothly in freezing conditions.
• Windshield washer fluid: Regular washer fluid can freeze in cold weather, and nobody wants to drive with a frosty windshield. Switch to a winter-specific washer fluid that won’t freeze so you can keep your windshield clear and stay safe on the road.
• Motor oil: Cold weather can thicken your motor oil, making it harder for your engine to do its job. If it’s time for an oil change, consider using a winter-grade oil that flows better in the cold and helps keep your engine protected.

Battery Care for Winter Car Maintenance

Freezing temperatures slow down the chemical reactions inside the battery, which makes it harder for your car to start and can lead to a dead battery when you least expect it. That’s why it’s important to know how to protect your battery from winter weather.

Start by testing your battery before the cold hits hard. This quick check will let you know if it’s still holding a strong charge or if it’s time for a new one. While you’re at it, clean the battery terminals to remove any corrosion that might block power flow. Also, make sure to keep jumper cables or a portable charger handy for those unexpected moments when your battery needs a boost.

Additional Winter Car Maintenance Tips

Winter driving can throw all sorts of surprises your way, so it’s smart to go the extra mile to be prepared. Here are a few more simple things you can do to make winter driving safer and easier.

• Clean your headlights: When the days are short and dark, clear headlights are a must. Over time, they can get foggy or dirty, which dims their brightness. A quick wipe can make a big improvement in how well you see — and how well others see you — on those snowy, icy nights.
• Replace your wiper blades: If your blades are leaving streaks or making annoying noises, it’s time for a new pair. You’ll be glad you swapped them out when the snow and sleet start hitting your windshield.
• Pack an emergency kit: It’s always a good idea to be ready for the unexpected. Stash a few essentials in your car, like a blanket, a flashlight, and some snacks. You never know when you might get stuck or need to wait for help. Also, make sure to put an ice scraper and a set of jumper cables in your kit.

Conclusion

Taking care of your car right now before winter hits means reducing your chances of getting stranded or dealing with an expensive repair bill. Plus, it gives you the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle is ready for whatever winter throws your way.

And while you’re preparing your car for the cold, make sure it’s protected with the right auto insurance. If you’re looking for a new policy, Mercury offers cheap auto insurance without compromising quality. We also offer various auto insurance discounts so you can save even more.

Contact us today for a fast, free quote!