9 Ways to Winterize Your Car

Winterize Your Car - Tips from Team Ryan Automotive

As the winter season approaches, it's important to be aware of the challenging driving conditions that come with it. Slippery roads, reduced visibility, and the potential for car performance issues due to frigid temperatures can all make driving more difficult and dangerous. To ensure a safer and more reliable winter driving experience, it's crucial to take the necessary steps to winterize your car. By following these essential tips, you can prepare your vehicle for the harsh winter conditions and minimize the risk of encountering problems on the road.

1. Inspect Wiper Blades: 
   Check your wiper blades for cracks, as damaged blades can impair visibility. Clean them with Windex, and if needed, replace them. Consider using winter wipers designed for optimal performance in icy conditions.
   
   

2.    Consider Winter Tires:
If you frequently experience frigid weather, switch to winter tires with specialized rubber compounds and tread patterns for better traction on slippery roads.

4. Examine Cooling System:
Inspect the radiator and heater for cracked or leaking rubber components. Replace damaged hoses to ensure the proper functioning of your cooling system.

5. Wiper Fluid Level:
Ensure an adequate wiper fluid level in your car's reservoir, and opt for a fluid with antifreeze properties to enhance performance in winter conditions. Carry an extra gallon in your vehicle during winter.

6. Coolant Test:
Test your car's coolant annually to prevent engine freezing. Change it if dirty, ensuring your coolant effectively protects the engine.

7. Use the Right Engine Oil:
Check your vehicle's owner's manual for specific oil recommendations for colder weather. Using the right engine oil prevents thickening in frigid temperatures and maintains optimal engine performance.

8. Winter Survival Kit:
Prepare for emergencies by packing a winter survival kit. Include water, a blanket, an ice scraper, durable food items, road flares, a phone charger, a flashlight, and first aid supplies. Keep this kit in your car throughout the winter. See blog post here for how to build your own emergency car kit.

9. Oil Change & Inspection:
At Team Ryan Automotive, we complete a complimentary inspection including brakes, tires and wiper blades with every oil change. We're here to give you peace of mind whether you or a family member is driving the vehicle. We stand behind our work with a Lifetime Warranty.

Winterizing your car is an essential step to ensure the safety and reliability of your vehicle during the colder months. By taking the time to prepare your car for winter driving conditions, you can help prevent breakdowns and ensure that you and your passengers stay safe on the road. From checking your tires and fluids to inspecting your battery and making sure your heating system is in top condition, winterizing your car can go a long way in providing peace of mind and a smoother driving experience when the temperatures drop.

Contact Team Ryan Automotive

Team Ryan Automotive has two locations in Georgia. For Team Ryan Automotive in Buford GA, call (678) 765-7926. For Team Ryan Automotive in Cumming GA, call (678) 341-9602. For more information or to schedule an appointment online visit our online scheduler now.