How Do I Get My Car Ready For Winter?

Updated: Aug 25, 2021

Winter is here! And colder temps mean that your vehicle might need some extra TLC from The Subaru Guys to keep you safely on the road, even if you're only taking short trips out and about these days. Since winter weather can bring harsh conditions, be sure to prepare in advance for being out on the road when it is icy, snowy and when the temps dip extra low, to ensure your car will get you where you need to go all winter long.

Reincarnation Inc. The Subaru Guys Winter Prep Checklist:

Have Your Battery Tested: Your vehicle’s Battery plays a major role in getting your Engine started. Batteries typically last between 3 to 5 years, however, in warmer climates, like here in Albuquerque, that time period could be cut in half. If you haven’t replaced your Car's Battery in over 2 years, you may want to consider replacement or at least have your Battery tested by a Reincarnation Technician. A Battery that is fully charged measures about 12.7 volts or higher. If the voltage is less than 12.5 it needs to be recharged. Once the Battery’s static voltage falls below 11.9, it is considered marginally bad.

Get An Oil Change: Traffic, constant stop and go conditions, and even short trips take a toll on your Engine. By Changing The Oil, you’re ensuring clean, fresh Oil is running through the Engine to protect components from rubbing metal to metal. Getting regular Oil Changes from Reincarnation Inc. The Subaru Guys, will help to keep Engine components cool, and extend the life of your vehicle.

Check Fluids: Check all Fluid levels including Oil, Transmission Fluid, Brake Fluid, Power Steering Fluid (if applicable), and Coolant. Top-off any Fluids that are low and have fluid exchanges performed every 30,000 miles. Coolant is especially important as its job is to keep your Engine from Overheating. Though winter temperatures may be considerably lower outside, your Engine still gets hot and needs to be cooled. Additionally, low levels of Coolant could mean there’s a Leak in the Coolant System, which can cause your Heater to malfunction.

Replace Wiper Blades: Whether traveling through snow or rain, nothing should prevent you from seeing the road clearly. After our long hot and dry summer here in Albuquerque, it’s quite possible the rubber on you wiper blades has dried out and become brittle. Be sure to protect your windshield and your field of vision by replacing Wiper Blades often.

Test Heater and Defrosters: Don’t be left in the cold without a functioning heater. When temperatures drop down into the 50’s or less, you need heat to keep you warm and comfortable. In addition to the heater, make sure both the Front and Rear Defrosters are in working order so that you’ll be able to clear any fogged up windows in the cold.

Check Belts and Hoses: Colder temperatures can shorten the life of you vehicles Belts and Hoses, so ensure they are inspected often and replaced at regular intervals. Timing belts, for example, should be replaced every 90,000 miles. A stretched or broken belt can leave you stranded on the road in uncomfortable conditions.

Replace Filters: All Filters including the Cabin, Engine Air, and Fuel Filters should be replaced to help you through the winter months. As you drive, your vehicle collects debris and other contaminants in the air and traps them in Filters to prevent them from causing harm to the Engine or entering the cabin area. By replacing your vehicle’s Filters, you can Reduce Emissions, Increase Fuel Efficiency, and Protect your Engine.

Have Your Brakes Inspected: No matter what time of year it is, it is crucial your Brakes work. Spongy Brake Pedals, Screeching or Rumbling Brake Sounds, or an Illumined Brake Light are indicators that your Brakes need attention. A using our Digital Inspection process, a Reincarnation Technician will check the Thickness of your Brake Pads and inspect Rotors to ensure wear is even and free from grooves.

Check Tires: Look for any signs of uneven wear in your Tires that could cause a blowout such as cupping, nicks or cuts on sidewalls, and Low Tire Pressure. And don't forget to include an inspection of your Spare Tire, incase you need to use it in an emergency.

Get Tire Chains: Tire Chains are necessary when traveling in snow, when roads have not yet been plowed or salted, to assist with traction. If you know you’re going to need Tire Chains, practice installing chains on your Tires at home before you head out into inclement weather.

Pack An Emergency Road Kit: Sometimes, even after much preparation, you could still find yourself in a predicament on the road, which is a real bummer any time, but especially not ideal during a pandemic. Be prepared for any situation from road closures, accidents, or breakdowns by packing an emergency kit ( and don't forget an extra mask!)

If you need a Reputable Mechanic in Albuquerque to give your Import Vehicle the green light for Overall Vehicle Performance and Winter Road Safety, give Reincarnation Inc. The Subaru Guys a call today or visit or website reincarnationnm.com . Our award-winning team will be happy to Diagnose your Vehicle for you and keep your car safely on the road this winter.