How to Keep Your Vehicle Winter-Ready: A Complete Winter Car Care Guide
Winter driving in New England is no joke. Between freezing temperatures, snow, ice, road salt, and potholes, your vehicle takes a serious beating. Whether you drive a sedan, SUV, or truck, proper winter preparation can save you money, prevent breakdowns, and keep you safe on the road.
At Auto Factory, we help drivers stay confident all winter long. Here’s a complete, easy-to-follow guide on how to keep your vehicle winter-ready.
1. Check Your Battery Before the Cold Hits
Cold weather is brutal on car batteries. In fact, most battery failures happen during winter.
What to do:
Have your battery tested before winter
Replace batteries older than 3–5 years
Clean corrosion from battery terminals
Why it matters: Cold temperatures reduce battery power, making it harder to start your vehicle when you need it most.
2. Install the Right Tires for Winter Driving
Tires are one of the most important safety components during winter.
Winter tire tips:
Use winter tires or all-weather tires with proper tread depth
Check tire pressure often (cold air lowers PSI)
Inspect tread depth (minimum 4/32" recommended for winter)
Pro tip: Under-inflated tires reduce traction and fuel efficiency.
3. Inspect Your Brakes and Suspension
Slippery roads demand brakes that perform perfectly.
Have a professional check:
Worn suspension parts reduce control on icy or snow-covered roads.
4. Top Off All Essential Fluids
Fluids thicken in cold weather, which can strain your vehicle.
Winter-critical fluids:
Engine oil (use manufacturer-recommended viscosity)
Antifreeze / coolant (proper mix is critical)
Brake fluid
Power steering fluid
Windshield washer fluid (winter-rated)
Never use plain water in the washer reservoir—it will freeze.
5. Test Your Heating and Defrosting System
A working heater isn’t just about comfort—it’s about safety.
Make sure:
Poor visibility is one of the biggest winter driving hazards.
6. Replace Wiper Blades and Check Lights
Snow, ice, and road spray destroy worn wipers fast.
Do this before winter:
Install winter or heavy-duty wiper blades
Check all headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals
Clean foggy or oxidized headlights
Good visibility helps other drivers see you during snowstorms.
7. Protect Your Vehicle From Salt and Corrosion
Road salt causes rust and long-term damage.
Protection tips:
Wash your vehicle frequently, including the undercarriage
Apply paint sealant or wax before winter
Address small rust spots early
Rust prevention extends your vehicle’s lifespan and resale value.
8. Keep a Winter Emergency Kit in Your Car
Even well-maintained vehicles can get stuck.
Recommended winter car kit:
Being prepared can turn a stressful situation into a manageable one.
9. Schedule a Winter Vehicle Inspection
A professional inspection can catch small issues before they become expensive repairs.
At Auto Factory, our winter inspections check:
Stay Safe This Winter with Auto Factory
Preparing your vehicle for winter isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety, reliability, and peace of mind. Whether you need a winter inspection, tires, brakes, or general maintenance, Auto Factory is here to help.
?? Call us today 978 854 6426or ?? visit our dealership to make sure your vehicle is ready for whatever winter throws your way.
Serving drivers throughout Peabody and the surrounding Massachusetts area.
