How to Prep a Car for Winter

Navigating the roads of Ann Arbor can be a tough task as the cold weather sets in, but the right winter car prep tips will ensure that you drive with total peace of mind. From simple upgrades to maintenance tasks, we’ll tell you how to prep a car for winter like a pro. Read the best tips and tricks from our service department, and schedule an appointment to winter-proof your car today!

Winter Car Prep Tips

Knowing how to prep your car for the winter can be a huge asset during your Detroit commutes and Dearborn road tips, and you can easily complete these tasks in a quick trip to the service department – or even your own garage. Here are a few of our top winter car prep tips:

• Check Your Tires: A good tire inspection will include both a tread wear inspection and a tire rotation. If your tread is too low, it won’t grip the road during slippery conditions – which means it’s time for a new set!
• Fill Up Your Tires: You can either get your tire pressure checked at your maintenance appointment or take care of it yourself, but either way, keep your tires filled to the recommended guidelines.
• Try Snow Tires: If the ice and snow leave you feeling wobbly on the roads, a good pair of snow tires will keep you even more secure than typical all-season tires.
• Complete Basic Maintenance: Check your oil, your antifreeze, and your battery to make sure your car is in good working order for the season ahead. 
• Check Windshield Wipers: Replace your windshield wiper fluid with a freeze-proof formula, and consider getting a new set of wiper blades if your set is looking a little worn.
• Fix Your Heater: Before the frigid air hits, it’s a good idea to get your heater inspected and fixed. No need to drive while shivering!
• Top Off YourTank: Moisture can build up in the empty space of your gas tank, so keep your tank half full in the winter time. If you rarely drive in the winter, a full tank will eliminate any empty space – preventing moisture damage even more.

Winter Car Safety Kit

Another great way to prep your car for the winter is to make a car emergency kit. These kits are packed with all the necessary items that you need to get out of an unexpected situation, so we recommend packing items like:

• Battery jumper cables
• Ice scraper
• Portable shovel
• Basic first-aid kit
• Cell phone charger
• Camera
• Flat tire kit
• Tow strap
• Fire extinguisher
• Shelf-stable food and water
• Emergency Supplies: flashlight, warning signaling cones, backup batteries, safety vest, and roadside triangles
• Winter items: gloves, blanket, rain poncho, rags, boots, socks, a hat. Pack anything to keep you warm if you get stranded during a snowstorm. 

Schedule Your Service with Victory Toyota of Canton

Want more winter car prep tips? Find out how to prep your car this winter with Victory Toyota of Canton. Pick up supplies from our parts department or buy a set of snow tires at our tire center. No matter your needs, contact us with any questions in the Canton area!