Winter is almost over, but a variety of risks still affect your safety when driving. This month, perform a quick maintenance check on your vehicle to improve safety and reduce the chance of accidents.
Tires
Good tires improve traction on slippery, snowy and cold surfaces. Check tread depth and tire pressure, and inflate the tires to the manufacturer’s recommended level.
Brakes
Drive cautiously in winter weather, but also ensure your brake system is in good condition. Inspect pads, rotors, lines and fluid, and replace any worn parts so brakes work efficiently.
Battery
Cold reduces battery performance. Have the battery voltage tested, check terminals and connections, and replace a battery that is weak or more than three years old to lower the risk of being stranded.
Fluids
Several fluids help your vehicle operate safely in cold weather. Keep levels topped up and use appropriate mixtures when needed.
Recommended fluids
- Gasoline – Keep the gas tank at least half full to reduce the chance of fuel-line freezing and to provide heat if you become stranded.
- Oil – A lower-viscosity oil flows more easily in cold starts; check the level and change if needed according to your owner’s recommendations.
- Coolant – Use a 50/50 antifreeze/water mix in the coolant reservoir and inspect for leaks to help prevent engine freezing.
- Washer fluid – Use winter-grade washer fluid and keep the reservoir full so you can clear snow, salt and debris from the windshield.
Lights and wipers
Visibility can drop at night or during storms. Replace broken bulbs, restore foggy or yellowed headlights, and replace worn wiper blades to maintain clear sightlines.
Defroster and climate control
Confirm the defroster and heating system clear windows and keep passengers warm. If performance is poor, have a mechanic inspect the HVAC and defroster components.
Survival kit
A basic winter survival kit can make a difference if you become stuck. Check your kit now and replace any used or missing items.
Survival kit items
- Shovel, de-icer and cat litter or sand
- Blankets, gloves, hats, extra socks and warm boots
- First aid kit
- Knife and waterproof matches
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Jumper cables
- Cellphone charger
- Nonperishable snacks and water
Maintaining your vehicle through the winter reduces accident risk and improves reliability on cold days. If you operate a maintenance or service business, consider related policies such as Computer Maintenance and Repair Insurance and Power Line Maintenance Insurance to help protect your operations.
Also review your auto coverage and talk to your agent about policy limits and options that apply to winter driving risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I check my tire pressure in winter?
Check tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips, since cold temperatures lower tire pressure.
What is a safe coolant mix for winter?
A 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water is generally recommended to prevent freezing and provide corrosion protection.
Should I replace my battery before winter?
If the battery is older than three years or shows low voltage on a test, replacing it before winter is a good precaution.