How to Winterize Your Car for Safe Winter Driving in Minnesota

With snow, ice, and reduced visibility, winter driving is no joke! That’s why preparing your car before the cold weather hits is one of the most important things you can do for your vehicle’s performance and your personal safety.  

At Eich Volkswagen in St. Cloud, MN, we’re committed to keeping you safe on the Minnesota roads during the winter months (and throughout the rest of the year, too!) – that’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide on how to winterize your car. 

Check Your Battery

Cold temperatures heavily strain your car battery, so testing your battery before winter begins is essential. The battery must be fully charged on cold winter mornings to start the engine. 

If you have difficulty starting your car, notice that your lights are dimmer than usual, or if your battery warning light is on, these are all signs that you need to replace your battery. Stop into Eich Volkswagen to test your battery and get it replaced if needed!

Inspect Your Tires

Winter tires will keep you from sliding around when driving on ice and snow. Start by checking the inflation of each tire, plus the spare – you’ll want to do this frequently throughout the winter. When the temperature drops, your tire pressure will drop by 1 PSI for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit. 

The tread depth is also important. If you have less than 4/32″ of tread on your tires, you’ll have less traction during snowy or wet conditions. 

Fluid Levels Matter

Checking your vehicle’s fluid levels can help you avoid winter wear and tear. Antifreeze, also known as engine coolant, is one of the most critical components to check. In cold temperatures, antifreeze liquids with more water content are more likely to freeze, which can cause your radiator to crack. You can prevent this issue by switching to a coolant that is half antifreeze and half distilled water. 

Make sure you have enough windshield washer fluid to have visibility during stormy winter weather. Regular oil changes are also important – cold weather can cause your oil to become thicker, so get it checked frequently. 

Wipers and Lights

In the winter especially, you need to ensure that your car has good visibility both during the day and at night. Check if your windshield wipers are functioning correctly; if not, replace them as soon as possible. You should also test if your lights are bright enough to see at night or during a bad storm.

Emergency Kit Essentials

Preparing for winter storms and emergencies is always a good idea before the cold weather sets in. Put a winter emergency kit together and stick it in your trunk – it should have warm blankets, a first aid kit, water, and non-perishable snacks. If you are ever stranded in a snowstorm, your future self will thank you!

Get a Professional Inspection

Make sure your winter car basics are covered by scheduling an appointment with a mechanic – the professionals at Eich VW are ready to help! They can check the brakes and the battery, top off your fluids, and make sure you’re prepared for the snow and ice to come.

Conclusion

Knowing how to winterize your car will give you safety and peace of mind when the inevitable winter weather has finally arrived – send this post to friends and family who need a quick car maintenance reminder!

Ready to winterize your car? Schedule a service appointment at Eich VW in St. Cloud, MN, today and ensure your vehicle is ready to handle whatever winter throws your way!