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5 Tips to Get Your Car Ready for Winter

Written By Northgate Chiropractic Clinic on October 20, 2020

Icy roads, fog, sleet, and snow during winter pose a severe traffic hazard even to the most experienced drivers.

Seventeen percent of all motor vehicle accidents happen in the cold season. That’s why special preparations are necessary to make your vehicle safe, secure, and road-worthy during winter.   

In this article, you will learn essential tips to make your cars winter-ready.

Maintenance Procedures to Get Your Car Ready for Winter

Follow these fool-proof tips to avoid vehicle breakdown and road mishaps out in the cold.

1. Check All of Your Car Fluids  

Pop up your hood and check the amount and condition of these car fluids:

  • Windshield washer fluid
  • Coolant
  • Power steering fluid
  • Transmission fluid
  • Brake fluid
  • Engine oil

Replace dirty cabin and engine filters. Also, inspect and replace cracked, brittle, or leaking hoses at every oil change.

2. Check Tire Tread and Pressure

Inspect the tire tread for sidewall bruises, bubbles, irregular and uneven wear. Replace worn tires and use the same type, size, and brand on all corners.

If you’re experiencing heavy snow in your area, opt for winter tires for maximum traction, safety, and control.

Inspect your car tire’s pressure and compare it to the door placard number for the correct load.  

3. Always Fill Up the Gas Tank

Condensation can form in a near-empty gas tank. Water can drop into the fuel lines, form ice, and block gas flow to your engine. Avoid this by keeping your gas tank at least half full every time.

4. Schedule a Car Tune-Up

Get a regular tune-up at least every 30,000 miles. Advance it during the winter season to have these items checked and replaced if they are broken:

  • PCV valve
  • Spark plugs,
  • Fan belts
  • Wiring
  • Brakes
  • Ignition
  • Belts
  • Windshield wipers

5. Check the Car Battery 

Turn your headlights on before starting your engine to check if you have enough battery charge. Also, check that the battery connection is corrosion-free, tight, and clean.

Be Ready for Road Emergency

Motor vehicle accidents can happen even if you and your car are prepared. Ensure that you have an emergency kit stored and accessible in your vehicle. Also, keep emergency lights, flares, jumper cables, and blankets in your car.

Unfortunately, if you figure in a motor vehicle accident and suffer from body pain because of your injury, experienced chiropractors at the Northgate Chiropractic Clinic can help you.

Contact Northgate Chiropractic Clinic at (507) 285-1677 for more information on auto injury treatments and schedule a consultation.  


Posted In: Chiropractic