Winter Driving Prep: Protect Your Vehicle From the Cold

Cold weather is one of the toughest tests for an aging vehicle. Batteries lose capacity, oil thickens, and tire pressure drops — all of which can leave you stranded on a cold morning. Here's how to get ahead of it.

Battery Performance Drops in the Cold

A battery that's losing capacity might still start your car in 70°F weather but fail completely at 20°F. Cold weather can reduce a battery's effective power by up to 50%. If your battery is 3+ years old, get it tested before winter hits.

Switch to the Right Oil Viscosity

Some manufacturers recommend a thinner oil viscosity for cold climates to ensure proper lubrication during cold starts. Check your owner's manual or ask our technicians what's right for your vehicle and region.

Tire Pressure Drops With Temperature

For every 10°F drop in temperature, tire pressure can decrease by about 1 PSI. Underinflated tires reduce traction on icy or wet roads, so check pressure regularly throughout the season.

Don't Forget Your Wipers and Washer Fluid

Use winter-rated washer fluid that won't freeze, and replace worn wiper blades before the first storm hits — visibility is critical in winter weather.

Pre-Winter Checklist

• Battery and charging system test
• Oil change with season-appropriate viscosity
• Tire pressure, tread, and all-season/winter tire check
• Antifreeze/coolant concentration check
• Wiper blades and winter washer fluid
• Heater and defroster function test