Winter is nearly here - make sure your car is ready for the harsh weather!
Don't let our unseasonably warm fall lull you into a false sense of security. Winter is still coming, and it's bringing freezing temperatures, frost, and snow. AAA has released a checklist of points for your winter car prep.- Battery and Charging System - This is one you should let a professional technician check.
- Battery Cables and Terminals - Make sure all connections are secure. Remove corrosion from terminals and posts. Check condition of battery cables and terminals.
- Drive Belts - Inspect belts for cracks and fraying. Be sure to check the grooved underside as well as the top.
- Engine Hoses - Inspect the cooling system hoses for leaks, cracks, or lose clamps. Also squeeze the hoses to check for any that are brittle or excessively spongy.
- Tire Type and Tread - Because we get heavy snow in Colorado, it's important to make sure you have snow tires on your car. Any tires with less that 3/32 in of tread should be replaced
- Tire Pressure - Check your tire pressure more regularly during winter. As the temperature drops, so will your tire pressure.
- Air Filter - Check the air filter by holding it up to a 60-watt light bulb. If the light is blocked by most of the filter, it's time to replace it.
- Coolant Levels - Check the coolant levels when the engine is cold. If it is low, add a 50/50 solution of coolant and water to maintain the antifreeze capability.
- Lights - Check the functionality of all headlights, taillights, emergency flashers, turn signals, brake lights, and back-up lights.
- Wiper Blades - Blades should completely clear the windshield on every swipe. Replace blades that leave streaks or miss spots.
- Washer Fluid - Fill the windshield wiper fluid with a cleaning solution that has antifreeze components.
- Brakes - Have your brakes inspected by one of our certified technicians. This should be one of the most important to-dos off your winter car prep checklist.
- Transmission, Brake, and Power Steering Fluids - Check all fluids to ensure they are at or above the minimum safe levels.
- something for traction (kitty litter, sand, salt)
- snow shovel
- snow brush
- Flashlight
- ice scraper
- window washer solvent
- cloth or paper towels
- jumper cables
- gloves, hats, and blankets
- warning devices
- non-perishable snacks
- extra clothes
- first aid kit
- basic toolkit
- mobile phone and car charger
