How to Prep a Car for Winter

Knowing how to prep a car for winter is essential for your safety and your vehicle’s overall performance. Check out these winter car prep tips from our team of experts at Bergey's VW of Wilkes-Barre below, then contact us if you have any questions or need to schedule service in Larksville, PA.

Winter Car Prep Tips

If you’re wondering how to prep a car for winter, there are many steps you can take to ensure your vehicle performs optimally and keeps you safe on the road:

• Check your battery: Cold temperatures are tough on your car battery, so check it for signs of wear and run a battery test to determine if it’s time for a replacement.
• Monitor your tire pressure: One winter car prep tip you’ll want to practice throughout the season is regularly checking your tire pressure. Cold weather causes your tire pressure to drop, and improper tire inflation can decrease your traction and gas mileage on Lehighton roads.
• Invest in winter tires: If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, investing in some winter tires is a great idea. Unlike all-season tires, winter tires have unique groove patterns to prevent snow buildup and can remain flexible in cold temperatures.
• Get heavy-duty wipers and freeze-resistant fluid: If you’re ever caught driving in a snowstorm, having heavy-duty wiper blades and freeze-resistant wiper fluid can make all the difference in your visibility.
• Keep your tank at least half full: Aim to keep your fuel tank at least half full to prevent moisture from building up and diluting your fuel.
• Get regular brake checks: Get your brakes checked regularly throughout winter, as ice can cause rust to build up and decrease your brake performance.
• Check your coolant levels: Ensure there is enough coolant in your radiator to keep your engine running smoothly. You can purchase coolant right here at our parts center in Larksville. If you don’t know what type of coolant your car needs, consult your owner’s manual.
• Get an oil change: Cold weather also causes your engine oil to thicken, which decreases engine performance. That said, we recommend beginning the winter season with an oil change in Larksville.
• Check your heater: Ensure that your heater is working properly before the temperatures drop to avoid a chilly commute to Stroudsburg.
• Keep a survival kit in your car: Put together a survival kit with blankets, water, food, a phone charger, and other essentials you may need in the event you’re stranded on the side of the road or involved in a collision.

Prepare Your Car for Winter With Bergey's VW of Wilkes-Barre!

If you still have questions about how to prep a car for winter or need to schedule service, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us! We’re here to help ensure you and your vehicle are prepared for the cold months ahead. In the meantime, check out more service tips and tricks from our experts at Bergey's VW of Wilkes-Barre.