Denver winters can bring freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and rapid weather changes. A little preparation before the first major storm can help your vehicle start reliably, handle winter roads, and reduce the chance of an inconvenient breakdown.
1. Check Your Battery
Cold temperatures put extra demand on your battery. Have the battery and charging system tested before winter, especially if the battery is several years old. Clean corrosion from the terminals and make sure the connections are secure.
2. Inspect Your Tires
Good tire condition matters even more when roads are wet, snowy, or icy. Check tread depth, look for uneven wear or damage, and keep all four tires inflated to the pressure listed by your vehicle manufacturer. If you regularly drive in winter weather, ask about whether winter or all-season tires are appropriate for your vehicle and driving needs.
3. Check Your Antifreeze and Cooling System
Your engine coolant helps protect the cooling system from freezing and helps the engine maintain the right operating temperature. Before winter, have the coolant level and condition checked and look for signs of leaks around hoses, the radiator, and the water pump.
4. Change Your Oil if It Is Due
Engine oil becomes thicker as temperatures drop. If your oil change is due, taking care of it before winter is a simple way to keep your engine properly lubricated. Always use the oil viscosity recommended for your vehicle.
5. Test Your Brakes
Snow and ice reduce traction, so your braking system needs to be in good condition. Have the brake pads, rotors, brake fluid, and other components inspected if you notice squealing, grinding, vibration, pulling, or a change in pedal feel.
6. Make Sure Your Wipers and Defroster Work
Visibility is critical during winter storms. Replace worn wiper blades, top off windshield washer fluid with a winter-rated formula, and make sure the front and rear defrosters are working properly. Keep an ice scraper and snow brush in the vehicle.
7. Check Your Lights
Shorter days and winter weather mean more driving in low-visibility conditions. Check your headlights, brake lights, turn signals, reverse lights, and emergency flashers. Replace burned-out bulbs and clean cloudy headlight lenses when needed.
8. Build a Winter Emergency Kit
Keep a few essentials in your vehicle before the weather turns. Consider a blanket, gloves, flashlight, first-aid supplies, phone charger, jumper cables or a jump starter, water, snacks, an ice scraper, and basic tools. In snowy conditions, it is also smart to keep your gas tank from getting too low.
9. Schedule a Winter Inspection
A Pre-Winter inspection can catch small problems before they become bigger ones on a cold morning or during a snowstorm. If your vehicle needs service, getting it handled before severe weather can give you greater peace of mind on the road.
Get Your Car Winter-Ready
If your car needs a battery test, tire inspection, oil change, brake service, or other maintenance before winter, Express Car Care of Denver is here to help. Schedule your vehicle for a winter checkup and head into the season prepared for Colorado roads.