8 Things To Do To Your Vehicle Before Winter: How To Winterize Your Vehicle

Before we know it, winter will be upon us. For some that might be exciting, but for those who commute to work daily, it might not be. Making sure your vehicle is ready to take on the fierce Minnesota winter is very important, and might help give you some peace of mind the next time you have to hit the road.

Here are a few things you can do to ensure that your vehicle is in top shape and ready for the ice and snow:

1. Check your tires, make sure they are in good condition and have a tread depth of at least 5/32". Buying a set of winter tires is another good option, they contain a specialized tread that can help with traction. 

2. Check your tire pressure and make sure they are up to manufacture recommendations. The cold causes tire pressure to drop.

3. Test your battery, the cold is very tough on batteries. Especially pay attention to your cold-cranking amps, this is what will determine if your battery starts in cold temperatures.

4. Replace your windshield wipers. Visibility is crucial in the snow. 

5. Make sure you are up to date on your oil change, cold weather reduces the effectiveness of oil and makes it become thicker which makes it hard to circulate through your engine. 

6. Check your brake pads/rotors and your brake fluid. You do not want to be caught on icy roads without properly working brakes.

7. Make sure your heat and defrost are properly working.

8. Make sure you have an emergency kit in your vehicle. I like to always have an extra pair of winter boots, a hat, gloves, a blanket, hand warmers, an extra jacket if you have one, a phone charger, a small shovel, an ice scraper, and water.