Ways To Prep Your Vehicle For The Winter

Winter is just around the corner, and tips like these can help you keep your car looking and performing its best all year round. Did you know that there are some components that cold winter temperatures can be especially hard on? We're here to help at the Capitol Subaru service department. Learn more about how to properly care for your car in the winter below, and be ready for some of the challenges your car may face during winter weather.

If your tires are looking worn like this one, it's just about time for a new set 

6. Check Your Tires

It's a good idea to check your tires throughout the year, but having good tires is especially important during the winter. That's because snow and ice can create slippery conditions on the road, but a quality set of tires can help you grip the road in wintery conditions. If your vehicle is a rear-wheel drive sports car, or you encounter snowy weather regularly, you might even consider investing in a set of winter tires specifically designed to help you stay in control in the snow. However, for an all-wheel drive Subaru vehicle for life in Salem, you may find that all-weather tires are sufficient. As long as they've got good tread and aren't damaged, they'll likely be enough to get you where you need to go safely.

 
Technician Performing Battery Test 

5. Have Your Car Battery Tested

Cold temperatures take a significant toll on your car's battery. In fact, our neighbors to the north often need to equip their vehicles with special battery heaters so they'll start in the freezing cold. Here in Oregon, such features aren't usually necessary. However, the cold may cause a car battery on its last legs to finally give up the ghost. Before winter hits, have your battery tested. If a battery health test indicates that it's almost ready to be replaced, do so before the winter. Cold temperatures and an old battery make it more likely to be stranded somewhere in need of a jump start.

4. Test The Heater

When the mercury starts to drop, switch the climate controls and turn the heat on, just to make sure you'll be comfortable when things get chilly. If the heater doesn't seem to be working, head to our service center and have an expert take a closer look. Not only is the heater an important part of keeping you comfortable during the winter months, it's closely related to the engine's cooling system. A heater that isn't working can be a sign of bigger problems under the hood. That's why we recommend an inspection by one of our trained technicians.

If you aren't getting warm air from the vents, you might want to get that fixed before winter arrives 

3. Consider Protecting Against Road Salt

Salt used to melt ice on the roads in some municipalities can accelerate rust formation and damage the clear coat on your vehicle's paint job. You may want to invest in a waxing kit to preserve your vehicle's paint. Before you set off, it's also a good idea to brush any excess snow and ice off your tires, which can get kicked up against the vehicle as you embark. And to get any salt off your vehicle's undercarriage, a simple car wash with undercarriage spray can keep road salt from causing any problems.

2. Have Your Brakes Checked

The most important factor in keeping you safe in the winter is being able to stop. That means having good tires with sufficient grip, but it also means having effective brakes. That includes your vehicle's anti-lock brake system, which is especially crucial in icy conditions. If your brakes lock-up and send you into a skid, which is more likely when the road is slippery, the ABS system rapidly pulses the brakes, to bring you to a safe, controlled stop.

1. Replace Bad Wiper Blades

Heavy snowfall and ice forming on the windshield can make it difficult to see -- which can be very dangerous without wiper blades to help clear the view. What's more, muddy roads created by melting snow can splash mud onto your windshield that old, brittle wiper blades just smear all over, obscuring your view. If you haven't done so in the last 12-18 months, now is the right time to invest in some new wiper blades. They'll keep your windshield cleaner and be more effective at removing snow and ice.

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Capitol Subaru of Salem

920 Auto Group Ave NE
Directions Salem, OR 97301

  • Sales: 503-587-5500
  • Service: 503-587-5500
  • Parts: 503-587-5500