Editor’s Note: Nathaniel is a part-time student and a certified Walmart Auto Care Center Service Technician.

As the winter months approach, average daytime and nighttime temperatures drop, and rain turns into snow. Preparing your vehicle for the colder months will aid in prolonging the vehicle’s life as well as maintaining the vehicle and your safety. 

Bridgestone Tire advises servicing the battery; cooling system; brakes; belts, hoses, spark plugs, wires, and cables. Additionally, switching to winter tires or servicing the current ones is recommended. 

While the list above may seem overwhelming, most tasks you can check yourself before going to your local automotive shop or dealership. That said, model-specific vehicle information can be found in the owner’s manual as well as throughout the vehicle such as the under the hood and driverside door. 

As temperatures decrease, a vehicle’s battery power decreases too. It also requires more power to start the battery in the winter, so ensuring the battery is in good condition helps prevent potential stranding. 

Likewise, adjusting or refilling the coolant-to-water ratio can prevent corrosion and potential freezing. Depending on the vehicle, ratios may vary from an even mix of 50/50 to 70/30. Consult the owner’s manual or personal mechanic for the recommended solution ratio. This next service can be done anytime, but it is advised to routinely check the belts, hoses, spark plugs, wires, and cables each season to prevent potential problems and maintain the well-being of the vehicle.

In regard to tires, switching from summer or all-season tires to winter tires is strongly recommended for optimal performance, but all-season tires in good condition are sufficient. However, whether replacing the tires or rotating for optimal usage, noting the tread height and maintaining the tire pressure is crucial, especially during the winter months. Temperatures consistently at or below freezing can cause non-winter tire treads to harden as the rubber compounds react to the cold, subsequently negatively affecting the tire’s grip. Additional information regarding the tire pressure and size can be found inside the driver’s door or in the vehicle’s owner’s manual.

*Though this article has provided resources and information for winterizing your vehicle, comfort and safety are a priority. Do not attempt any major modifications or maintenance without professional training or assistance. 

Sources for reader reference: Kranz, R. (2021, November 11). How to winterize your vehicle: A checklist for Success. Kelley Blue Book Official Guide. https://www.kbb.com/car-advice/10-tips-on-how-to-winterize-your-vehicle/ 

Tips for winterizing your car. Bridgestone Tires. (2021, April 1). https://www.bridgestonetire.com/learn/maintenance/how-to-winterize-a-car/