How to Prep a Car for Winter

Winter weather can inflict some serious vehicle damage. Rather than dealing with issues such as congealed motor oil, low tire pressure, and low battery power, learn how to prep a car for winter with our guide! The winter car prep tips below help you stay ahead of cold weather issues and maintain one of your biggest investments. Our service center in Orland Park is also here whenever you need maintenance, such as an oil change, or require assorted repairs. Contact us with questions about winter weather and vehicle maintenance!

Winter Car Prep Tips

From your quick trips to the store to your long treks out of Hoffman Estates, learning how to prep a car for winter gives you confidence and peace of mind during the ride. Here are the winter car prep tips you can follow to prepare:

• Check your battery: Before the weather changes, it’s a good idea to run a battery test as the chilly weather tends to make it harder for your car to start. Inspect the battery cables and terminals for cracks to see if you need a battery replacement. 
• Check your tire pressure: You’ll probably notice your tires deflating at the start of the cold season. As the temperature drops, it’s a good idea to add regular pressure checks to your trips around Naperville. Not only does improper inflation decrease your gas mileage, but it also fails to give you the necessary traction you need. 
• Consider winter tires: For areas with heavier amounts of snow and ice, it’s a good idea to consider adding winter tires to your checklist. Winter tires add an improved grip, shorten your stopping distance, and provide you with increased control. 
• Regular brake checks: It’s also a good idea to add regular brake inspections during this season. Wet roads and ice can cause rust to build up and reduce your brake performance.
• Check your coolant levels: Ensure your engine is running smoothly by making sure you have enough coolant in your radiator. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual has the right coolant for your vehicle, and you can easily order it from the INFINITI of Orland Park parts center. 
• Change your oil: Another factor of your smooth engine performance during the winter months is your engine oil. Since motor oil naturally thickens in cold weather, it’s a good idea to start the season off right by scheduling an oil change.
• Fill your wiper fluid and replace the wiper blade: Salt and debris from the road can affect your visibility on Orland Park roads. Consider freeze-resistant wiper fluid and heavy-duty wiper blades for the more harsh months. 
• Keep the tank topped off: An empty tank allows moisture to build up and leads to diluted fuel and more strain on your vehicle’s fuel pump and other parts. 
• Check your heater: Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you have to suffer during your daily commute. Make sure your heating system is functioning properly at the start of the winter season. 

Schedule Your Winter Service with INFINITI of Orland Park!

Now you know how to prep your car for winter! Contact us online or call our service center at (708) 942-7560 if it’s time for an oil change, tire replacement, or any other vehicle maintenance services. Our certified technicians look forward to working with you and helping your vehicle remain on Clarendon Hills roads for years. For additional reads, review how often you should rotate your tires and how often you should change your spark plugs!