When most drivers in South Jersey think about preparing their vehicle for winter, the first thing that often comes to mind is installing snow tires. While snow tires are important for traction on icy roads, winterizing your vehicle goes beyond just swapping out your tires. From protecting your car’s exterior to maintaining key systems, proper winter preparation is crucial for ensuring your vehicle performs well and stays in good condition during the colder months.
Although we do not do routine vehicle maintenance at Elmer’s Auto Body, we do believe in educating our clients to ensure that their vehicle is safe throughout the year. With that in mind, let’s dive into why winterizing your car involves more than just snow tires and what steps you should take to prepare your vehicle for South Jersey’s winter conditions.
Inspect and Protect Your Battery
Cold temperatures put extra strain on your car’s battery. In fact, batteries can lose up to 60% of their strength in freezing weather, making it harder to start your car. Have your battery tested to ensure it’s holding a full charge and is free from corrosion around the terminals. If your battery is more than three years old, consider replacing it before the colder months set in.
Check the Antifreeze Levels
Antifreeze, or coolant, is essential in regulating your engine’s temperature during the winter. Low or imbalanced antifreeze levels can lead to engine overheating or freezing, which can cause severe damage. Make sure the antifreeze in your car is topped off and mixed correctly to prevent freezing when temperatures drop.
Check Your Windshield Wipers
Not being able to see when driving? Not good. Winter weather often brings snow, ice, and fog, all of which can reduce visibility on the road. If your windshield wipers are old, damaged, or leaving streaks behind, it is best to get a new pair installed prior to wintertime. You may also consider switching to a winter-grade windshield washer fluid that resists freezing, and check to see if your defroster and heater are working well enough to keep your windows clear.
Test Your Brakes and Fluids
Your brakes are crucial for safe driving in any season, but especially in winter when roads can be slick. Have your brakes inspected for wear and tear before winter sets in. In addition to checking brake pads and rotors, make sure all fluids—including brake, transmission, and oil—are at their proper levels. If your oil is low, do not top it off; get an oil change instead.
Examine Your Heating System
A functioning heating system is not only essential for your comfort, but it also plays a role in vehicle safety. Make sure your heater, defroster, and seat warmers are in good working order before the chill sets in. In South Jersey, where winters can be unpredictable, having a reliable heating system ensures you and your passengers stay warm and your windows remain fog-free.
Check Your Tire Pressure
While snow tires are crucial, maintaining proper tire pressure is equally important. Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop, which can affect your car’s handling and fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly during winter and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended level.
Protect Your Paint and Undercarriage
Salted roads are a common sight in South Jersey during winter, but salt can be extremely damaging to your vehicle. Salt buildup can cause corrosion, especially on your car’s undercarriage and metal components. To protect your vehicle, consider getting a winter wax job that creates a protective barrier against road salt, moisture, and grime. Regularly washing your car throughout the winter will also help minimize rust and corrosion.
Stock an Emergency Kit
Winter can bring unpredictable weather, and it’s always best to be prepared. Make sure your vehicle is stocked with an emergency kit that includes items like a blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, ice scraper, and a small shovel. Being prepared can make all the difference if you get stuck in snow or need to address a sudden breakdown.
Contact a Collision Repair Shop in South Jersey Today
Winterizing your vehicle in South Jersey involves much more than installing snow tires. By taking the time to check your battery, fluids, brakes, and visibility systems, and protecting your vehicle’s exterior from salt, you can help ensure a smooth and safe driving experience all winter long. Don’t wait until the temperature starts to drop and frost forms. Now is the time to begin your preparations.
Sometimes winter weather takes a turn for the worst and ends up causing collisions. If you find yourself in a situation where your vehicle has been damaged in an accident, give Elmer’s Auto Body a call. We are here to restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition. In the mean time, follow our maintenance tips to keep your car’s performance optimal.