As temperatures drop and winter weather rolls in, your vehicle faces new challenges—slippery roads, freezing mornings, reduced visibility, and extra strain on key components. Just like swapping your wardrobe for warmer gear, your car needs its own seasonal prep to stay reliable and safe.
At Gobble’s Automotive, our technicians have put together a comprehensive list of winter car preparation tips to help you avoid unexpected breakdowns, improve traction, and stay protected through the coldest months.
How to Prep Your Vehicle for Winter
1. Test Your Battery Before the Freeze
Cold weather reduces your battery’s power output, making it harder for your engine to start.
Be sure to:
- Test battery strength
- Inspect terminals for corrosion
- Consider replacing older batteries (3+ years)
A weak battery is one of the most common causes of winter breakdowns.
2. Inspect Your Brakes for Winter Safety
Stopping distances increase on snowy roads, so fully functioning brakes are essential.
During a brake check, technicians should:
- Inspect pads and rotors
- Verify brake fluid levels
- Look for signs of wear or grinding
If your brakes aren’t at 100%, winter conditions will only make things worse.
3. Make Sure Your Defroster & Climate Control System Work
Visibility is everything in winter. Foggy and frosted windows make driving dangerous.
Check that your:
- Heater warms quickly
- Defroster clears windows efficiently
- Climate control system responds properly
If any of these aren’t working, get them serviced before freezing weather arrives.
4. Replace Wiper Blades for Clear Vision
Snow, slush, and road grime quickly reduce visibility. Make sure to install new blades before winter begins to ensure your windshield stays clear. Additionally, don’t forget to top off windshield washer fluid with winter-rated, freeze-resistant formula.
Visit Gobble’s Automotive for Winterization Services You Can Trust
Before harsh winter weather hits, make sure your vehicle is prepared for freezing temperatures and slick roads. At Gobble’s Automotive, our technicians will inspect your tires, brakes, battery, wipers, and more to keep you safe all season long. Winter can be tough on your vehicle—don’t wait until something goes wrong.
