9 Ways to Winterize Your Car

December 28, 2023
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.

a person is cleaning the windshield of a car with a wiper blade


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.

a car is parked in the snow on a snowy road .



3. Battery Check:
Cold weather diminishes battery power, increasing the risk of failure. Have your battery checked, and replace it if weakened, preventing potential breakdowns in the cold.


a red multimeter is sitting on top of a car battery


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.

a person is pouring windshield washer fluid into a car .


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.


the trunk of a car is filled with snow and clothes


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.

By Dan Ryan May 21, 2025
How Essential Is a Summer Emergency Kit?
By Dan Ryan May 9, 2025
Summer heat affects every part of your car, but your tires are especially vulnerable. The hot pavement, rising internal pressure, and long drives can all contribute to tire failure. At Team Ryan Automotive, we want to make sure your tires stay safe and road-ready all season. Here is how summer heat impacts your tires and what you can do to protect them. 1. Increased Air Pressure As temperatures rise, so does the air pressure inside your tires. For every 10-degree increase in temperature, tire pressure can rise by one to two pounds per square inch (PSI). Overinflation can cause tires to wear unevenly and increase the risk of a blowout. Check your tire pressure regularly and adjust it according to your vehicle’s recommended levels. 2. Faster Tread Wear Heat softens rubber, making it wear down more quickly. This is especially true if you are driving at high speeds on hot asphalt. Inspect your tires weekly during the summer for signs of excessive or uneven tread wear. If you notice balding or sidewall damage, it is time for a replacement. 3. Risk of Blowouts Blowouts are more common in summer because the combination of high speed, high pressure, and worn tires creates the perfect storm. To reduce your risk, avoid overloading your vehicle, maintain proper tire pressure, and replace old or worn tires as soon as needed. 4. Importance of Tire Rotation Rotating your tires helps them wear evenly, improving traction and extending their lifespan. Team Ryan Automotive recommends rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. This simple step can save you money and help keep your vehicle safe. 5. Alignment and Balancing Improper wheel alignment or unbalanced tires can cause uneven wear and strain on your suspension. If your vehicle pulls to one side or your steering wheel vibrates at high speeds, schedule a wheel alignment and tire balancing service. This can enhance tire performance and improve ride comfort. Visit Team Ryan Automotive for Tire Safety Tire safety is essential for your comfort, performance, and protection. If you are not sure about the condition of your tires, let our experts take a look. We offer tire inspections, pressure adjustments, rotations, alignments, and tire replacements. Whether you are commuting around town or planning a summer getaway, we will make sure your tires are ready for the heat. Keep your summer rolling smoothly with tire care you can trust. Schedule your tire service today at Team Ryan Automotive.
By Dan Ryan May 9, 2025
Summer road trips are a classic American tradition. Whether you are headed to the beach, the mountains, or your favorite theme park, the journey should be just as enjoyable as the destination. To help you avoid unexpected delays and make the most of your trip, here are five key vehicle preparation tips from Team Ryan Automotive. 1. Start with an Oil Change Fresh oil helps your engine stay cool, reduces friction, and supports fuel efficiency. If your oil is dirty or your last change was more than 3,000 miles ago, schedule an oil change before your trip. Remember, all TRA oil changes come with our complimentary Standard Vehicle Inspection. 2. Inspect Tires for Wear and Pressure Proper tire maintenance is essential for road safety. Check the tread depth to ensure there is enough grip, especially if you expect rain. Look for cracks, bulges, or signs of dry rot that could lead to blowouts. Finally, make sure all four tires are inflated to the correct pressure. Do not forget to check the spare tire too. 3. Test Your Battery and Charging System No one wants to deal with a dead battery in the middle of a road trip. Summer heat can weaken your battery and stress your alternator. Visit Team Ryan Automotive for a battery test and charging system inspection. If your battery is nearing the end of its life, we will recommend a replacement to keep you powered up. 4. Check Brakes and Brake Fluid Reliable brakes are vital for a safe trip. Listen for squeaking or grinding when braking and watch for a spongy pedal feel. These could be signs that your brake pads or fluid need attention. Let us perform a full brake inspection to make sure your vehicle is ready for any driving condition. 5. Prepare Your Emergency Kit Every road trip should include an emergency kit. Stock it with jumper cables, a flashlight, basic tools, bottled water, a first-aid kit, and non-perishable snacks. Having these items on hand can help you handle unexpected delays or mechanical issues more comfortably. Bonus Tip: Schedule a Pre-Trip Inspection Before hitting the road, bring your vehicle to Team Ryan Automotive for a pre-trip inspection . Our certified technicians will check your fluids, belts, hoses, tires, and more. We will catch small issues before they become trip-ending problems. Enjoy Peace of Mind on the Road A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to summer travel. Our team is here to help you enjoy your road trip with fewer surprises and more smiles. Schedule your service visit today and travel with peace of mind.
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