The weather is transitioning and soon winter will be here, so now is the perfect time to prep your car for the cold! At Cascade Collision, we were able to put together a list of musts when it comes to car winter maintenance. Following these easy steps will help to keep your car operating as it should, and may just help you to be ready for whatever comes your way!

Check Fluid Levels

Antifreeze, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid are all pretty important components when it comes to keeping your car running smoothly during the winter months. Antifreeze actually keeps your engine from freezing, and using a winter windshield wiper fluid means it won’t freeze the second it hits your windshield. (You should probably check/replace your windshield wipers too!) No matter what, if your vehicle’s fluids are low, refill them!

Take a Look at Your Tires

Tires with good tread have a much better chance of keeping your vehicle on the road in harsh weather conditions. Make sure to check your tire pressure, and if it’s low, fill them up at your local gas station. And, if you’ve had problems in the past, you may want to consider installing winter tires.

Make Sure the Heat is Working

If you happen to be stranded somewhere, having a working heater can literally be a lifesaver. Be sure to check the blower as well as the defroster—you want to make sure you can actually see while driving!

Be Prepared

It’s usually a good idea to have an emergency kit of sorts in your car during the winter. Blankets, non-perishable snacks, and water are a good place to start, but adding things like a flashlight, jumper cables, first aid kit, ice scrapers, and even a small shovel can be helpful to have. If you want more car winter maintenance and tips, visit Cascade Collision today. We do a variety of auto services as well as collision repair services.