How to Winterize Your Car

Winter can be a tough time for your car, with cold weather, snow, and ice all taking their toll. But there are a few simple things you can do to winterize your car and keep it running smoothly all winter long.

Winterization Checklist for Cars and Trucks

1. Check your tires

Your tires are one of the most important safety features on your car, so it's important to make sure they're in good condition before winter hits. Check the tread depth and make sure the tires are properly inflated. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, you may want to consider switching to winter tires. Winter tires are designed to provide better traction in snow and ice.

2. Get an oil change

Old oil can become thick and sluggish in cold weather, making it harder for your engine to start. It's important to get an oil change before winter hits, and to use a type of oil that is specifically designed for cold weather.

3. Check your antifreeze

Antifreeze is essential for preventing your engine from freezing in cold weather. Check the antifreeze level and make sure it's at the proper level. You may also want to have your antifreeze tested to make sure it's still effective.

4. Check your battery

Cold weather can put a strain on your car's battery. Have your battery tested to make sure it's in good condition. If your battery is more than three years old, it may be time to replace it.

5. Top off all fluids

In addition to antifreeze and oil, there are a number of other fluids that are important for your car's operation. Make sure to top off all fluids, including brake fluid, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid.

6. Replace your wiper blades

Worn wiper blades can make it difficult to see in snow and rain. Replace your wiper blades before winter hits to ensure good visibility.

7. Put together a winter emergency kit

A winter emergency kit can come in handy if you get stranded in the snow or ice. Your kit should include items such as a flashlight, flares, a blanket, a first-aid kit, and a shovel.

8. Keep your gas tank full

A full gas tank will help to prevent your car from stalling in cold weather. It's also a good idea to keep your gas tank full in case you get stranded in the snow or ice.

9. Wash and wax your car

Washing and waxing your car will help to protect the paint from the elements. It's especially important to wax your car before winter hits to create a protective barrier against snow, ice, and salt.

By following these tips, you can help to winterize your car and keep it running smoothly all winter long.

Repair Damaged Auto Body Parts with Ease

When winter weather hits so do treacherous roads slick with ice and melted snow. This leads to damaged bumpers, dented fenders, and scraped-up hoods. All of this can be extremely infuriating but Paint A Part is here to help relieve some of this aggravation with OEM replacement auto body parts painted to match the factory color. Contact us at 713-588-0248 if you need help finding the right prepainted bumper, fender, or hood or the correct paint color for your replacement auto body parts.

Photo By SnowKing1 - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0