Each winter, snow and ice blanket Minnesota and, unfortunately, that includes our roads. Getting your vehicle ready to navigate the challenging winter road conditions is essential. Minnesota’s winter demands a proactive approach to auto maintenance to guarantee your safety and prevent breakdowns or wipeouts in the frigid temperatures. Keep reading for some crucial winter auto maintenance tips to keep your vehicle running smoothly during the coldest time of the year.
7 Important Winter Auto Maintenance Practices
- Battery Health Check
The bitter cold of a Minnesota winter can be particularly harsh on car batteries, which may fail to start your car as temperatures plummet. Before winter hits its peak, have your battery tested to ensure it’s holding a charge effectively. If it’s nearing the end of its lifespan, consider replacing it to avoid being left stranded in the cold one morning when you need to get to work – or worse, when you need to get home at the end of a long winter day.
- Tire Inspection & Replacement
Your vehicle’s tires are its primary point of contact with icy and snow-covered roads, so it’s important that they maintain good traction during bad weather. Check the pressure of your tires regularly, as it tends to drop in colder temperatures. Consider investing in winter tires designed for optimal performance in icy conditions, providing better traction and control in the likely event that you get caught on the road during a snowstorm this winter.
- Check Fluid & Antifreeze Levels
Check all fluid levels in your automobile, including oil, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, and top them up if necessary. While you’re at it, make sure your antifreeze is at the correct concentration to prevent it from freezing. The right mixture will safeguard your engine against the extreme cold temperatures Minnesota experiences during the winter months.
- Brake Inspection & Maintenance
Well-functioning brakes are critical for safe winter driving. Before the first big snowfall, have your brakes inspected by a trusted mechanic, including the brake pads and rotors. Address any issues promptly to ensure optimal braking performance on icy and snowy roads.
- Test Lights & Wipers
With reduced visibility in snowy conditions, it’s crucial that your vehicle’s headlights and wiper blades are working correctly. Replace any burnt-out bulbs and consider upgrading to brighter, more visible options if necessary. Check the condition of your windshield wipers and replace them if they are streaking or not clearing the windshield effectively so you won’t have to worry about losing all visibility if you’re caught in a snowstorm.
- Heating & Defrosting System Check
Minnesota winters demand a reliable heating and defrosting system in your car. Test your vehicle’s heater and defroster to ensure they’re working efficiently. If you notice any issues, have them repaired by a local mechanic to maintain visibility and comfort during your winter drives.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit
Prepare an emergency kit to keep in your vehicle during the winter in Minnesota. Include items such as a blanket, extra winter clothing, non-perishable snacks, a flashlight, and jumper cables. Being prepared for unexpected situations can make a life-saving difference in treacherous winter road conditions.
Get Your Car Winterized by Professional Mechanics
Minnesota’s winter can be unforgiving, but with proper auto maintenance, you can confidently navigate the snowy and icy roads. Connect with Arvu Auto today if you’d like advice or assistance from our mechanics in the West Minneapolis metro to get your car ready for winter!
