How to Prep a Car for Winter

The change in season brings winter festivities and gatherings with family to the forefront of our minds. Less festive, however, are the unpredictable road conditions it also brings. Whether you’re picking up gifts around New Haven or packing up for a long road trip, you should be prepared for the road by learning winter car prep tips from the Jaguar North Haven service center. We’ve put together this guide for how to prep a car for winter, so you’re ready to face the chilly weather and icy roads for the season. 

Winter Car Prep Tips

From your quick trips to the store to your long treks out of Wallingford, learning how to prep a car for winter gives you confidence and peace of mind during the ride. Here are the winter car prep tips you can follow to prepare:

• Check your battery: Before the weather changes, consider running a battery test as the chilly weather tends to make it harder for your car to start. Inspect the battery cables and terminals for cracks to see if you need a battery replacement. 
• Check your tire pressure: You’ll probably notice your tires deflating once the cold season begins. As the temperature drops, it’s a good idea to add regular pressure checks to your trips around Branford. Not only does improper inflation decrease your gas mileage, but it also fails to give you the necessary traction you need. 
• Consider winter tires: If you live in an area that receives heavy amounts of snow and ice, you would benefit from adding winter tires to your checklist. Winter tires add an improved grip, shorten your stopping distance, and provide you with increased control. 
• Regular brake checks: It’s also beneficial to add regular brake inspections during this season. Wet roads and ice can cause rust to build up and reduce your brake performance.
• Check your coolant levels: Ensure your engine is running smoothly by making sure you have enough coolant in your radiator. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual has the right coolant for your vehicle, and you can easily order it from the Jaguar North Haven parts center. 
• Change your oil: Another factor that impacts how smoothly your engine performs during the winter months is your engine oil. Since motor oil naturally thickens in cold weather, it’s good to be proactive by starting the season with an oil change.  
• Fill your wiper fluid and replace the wiper blade: Salt and debris from the road can affect your visibility on North Haven roads. Consider freeze-resistant wiper fluid and heavy-duty wiper blades for the more harsh months. 
• Keep the tank topped off: An empty tank allows moisture to build up and leads to diluted fuel and more strain on your vehicle’s fuel pump and other parts. 
• Check your heater: Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you have to suffer during your daily commute. Make sure your heating system is functioning properly at the beginning of the winter season.

Schedule Your Winter Service with Jaguar North Haven!

Tick off the items on your winter car prep lists with the team at Jaguar North Haven. Our certified technicians and state-of-the-art facility are ready to handle what you need to get through the chilly months. Easily schedule your service online and be sure to take advantage of our service specials to save on your next visit. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today!