Essential 14-Step Checklist for Winter-Proofing Your Vehicle

Winterize your vehicle to steer clear of frozen doors, no-starts, and engine troubles with these essential tasks. Plus, ensure you're prepared with our recommended winter car emergency kit.

1. Check Tire Tread: Avoid sliding accidents by maintaining adequate tire tread depth, especially crucial for winter driving.

2. Test Your Car Battery: Ensure your battery is in good condition using a computerized battery tester to avoid being stranded due to a failed battery.

3. Clean Battery Terminals: Prevent hard starting problems caused by corrosion buildup on battery posts and terminals.

4. Protect Battery Terminals: Use a battery terminal protectant spray to minimize future corrosion.

5. Lubricate Window Tracks: Prevent damage and dragging of window regulators by lubricating window tracks with spray silicone or dry Teflon spray.

6. Lube Weather Stripping: Avoid being frozen out by coating weather stripping with spray silicone.

7. Lube Your Door Locks: Maintain door and trunk locks by using graphite lock lubricant or dry Teflon spray lube.

8. Lube Latches and Hinges: Prevent sticking hood latches by lubricating them with spray lithium grease.

9. Consider Winter Tires: Enhance traction and safety with winter tires designed for better performance on snow and ice.

10. Check Your Coolant: Ensure proper freeze protection and check coolant additives using an inexpensive tester and digital multimeter.

11. Switch to Winter Wiper Blades: Opt for winter wiper blades to avoid streaks or snow accumulation for better visibility.

12. Check and Replace Hood Lifts: Ensure hood lifts are functioning well, especially in colder temperatures, to prevent hood-related issues.

13. Replace the Cabin Air Filter: Maintain airflow through your car's heater by regularly replacing the cabin air filter.

14. Assemble a Winter Survival Kit: Be prepared for roadside emergencies with essential items during the winter months.