As cold weather overtakes and dominates your area, the reality of winter settles in. Your vehicle thrives in stable temperatures– mostly spring and fall – but it is during the extremes (summer and winter), when your battery, tires, and even your engine withstand the most pressure.
Driving on icy roads can prove perilous, but you are not without the proper tools and guidance to help you. Here on DrivenAutos.com, we have covered winter driving extensively, and offer to you the following articles for your review:
How to Prepare Your Car for Winter Travel
How to Prepare Your Car for Winter
9 Ways to Get You and Your Car Ready for Winter
If you have not already bookmarked this site, please do. Over the coming weeks, we will be adding to our collection of winter care articles, to deliver a full body of stories. In the meantime, consider making an appointment with your mechanic to conduct the tasks needed to get your vehicle winter ready. Consult your owner’s manual too — it is the best resource for keeping your vehicle road ready.
Between you and your mechanic, the following are worth checking:
- Oil and filter change intervals and viscosity recommendations
- Coolant type, concentration, and replacement schedule
- Battery inspection or replacement interval
- Brake system fluid level and service timing
- Tire rotation pattern, tread depth, and pressure guidelines
- Wiper blade replacement and washer fluid specifications
- Heating and defrost system checks
- Engine air and cabin filter replacement intervals
- Transmission and differential fluid service points
- Drive belt and timing belt inspection or replacement timeline
- Spark plug change interval and ignition system inspection
- Fuel system cleaning or filter replacement schedule
- Recommended seasonal inspections for hoses, seals, and gaskets
- Lighting system checks including headlamps and fog lamps
- Recommended service intervals for four-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive systems
- Inspection notes for suspension and steering components
- Guidance on undercarriage cleaning or corrosion prevention
- Emergency equipment recommendations (spare tire, jack, tools)
- Battery cable and terminal cleaning schedule
- HVAC system service intervals for optimal interior comfort
If you regularly drive where winter conditions prevail, the following items should be included in your emergency kit. These items are especially important when driving on remote roads:
- Blankets or sleeping bag
- Extra warm clothing including gloves, hat, and boots
- High-energy snacks and bottled water
- Small shovel and traction aids such as sand or cat litter
- Ice scraper and snow brush
- Jumper cables or a portable jump starter
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- First-aid kit
- Tow strap or rope
- Portable phone charger or power bank
- Windshield washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures
- Reflective warning triangles or road flares
- Extra windshield wiper blades
- Small tool kit with pliers, wrench, and screwdrivers
- Emergency whistle and waterproof matches
- Small container of engine oil and coolant
- Foldable snow shovel or ice pick
- Hand warmers or chemical heat packs
- Multi-purpose knife or utility tool
- Emergency contact numbers written on paper
Stay ready and drive smart. With your car prepped and your gear packed, winter roads become routine—not risky.
Photo by Mikhail Nilov.
