How to Prepare Your Car for Winter

Learn How to Prepare Your Car for Winter in South Portland, ME

Yankee Ford Offers Tips for Successfully Winterizing Your Car

Yankee Ford values teaching you how to prepare your car for winter in South Portland, ME. The winter months can be brutal in Maine. Our dealership prioritizes making sure you drive safely in snowy and icy conditions. Most vehicles are equipped with systems for driving in the colder months. We maintain a diverse inventory of winter auto parts for all your needs. If you have questions or need service, contact us today.

Have Your Car Serviced Before Winter

When preparing your car for cold weather, it’s vital to have it serviced. Your technician will assess and repair all aspects of your vehicle to ensure safety. They will educate you on proper driving tips, so you’re prepared to brave the roads. Auto parts you should have serviced include the following:

• Battery – As the temperature drops, so does your battery power. This means it takes more energy to start your car. A battery at or above 600 CCA should be installed for efficient winter functions.
• Cooling System – A ratio between 50/50 and 70/30 of antifreeze should be applied. This prevents corrosion and freezing.
• Brakes – A proper brake inspection is beneficial during winter to ensure safe braking on cold and icy roads.
• Wires & Cables – Belts, spark plugs, wires, and cables can go bad any time of year. If they stop working during the winter, you could be stranded for hours in the cold.

Switch to Winter Tires for Better Traction

Winterizing your car means installing winter tires. When the temperature stays at or below freezing on the road, it hardens the compounds in non-winter tires. This dampens the tire’s ability to grip the road. Winter tires have compounds that resist hardening and provide better traction. Maintaining tire pressure will aid in keeping your tires inflated while it’s cold. Your vehicle’s accurate tire pressure range is found in your owner’s manual or the driver’s side door jamb. Every change of 10 degrees in temperature could lead to a loss or gain of 1 PSI.

Replace Windshield Wipers & Fill Washer Fluid

Preparing your car for winter driving requires functional windshield wipers and washer fluid. Winter wipers are equipped with rubber that prevents ice from collecting on the windshield. They are designed to be heavier than regular wipers. Washer fluid should be replaced often during winter months. A snowstorm or day below freezing can quickly deplete the fluid in your reservoir. Asking your technician about the best washer fluid for specific temperatures will ensure you fill up with the right option.

Keep Gas Tank Half Full to Avoid Freezing

When winterizing your car, it’s essential to keep the gas tank at least half full. Would you believe it is more important to keep your tank full during the winter over the summer? A full gas tank will decrease the chances of building condensation. This prevents your gas lines from freezing. If you get stuck in the snow or ice for a long time, your engine may be the only option for warmth.

Pack a Winter Safety Kit in Your Vehicle

Preparing your car for winter driving includes keeping a winter safety kit handy. This is essential for any unusual situation that could occur. Having necessities with you is convenient if you’re stranded in snowy conditions or have trouble on icy roads. Storing any of the following in your vehicle’s compartment will prepare you for safety:

• First aid kit
• Car tool kit
• Pack of matches
• Flares
• Flashlight & batteries
• Ice scraper
• Warm clothing
• Non-perishable food & beverages
• Extra antifreeze

Learn How to Drive in Winter Conditions

Learning to drive during winter conditions will save you time, money, and potential problems. You should know all the necessary measures to take, such as:

• How Fast Should You Drive? It’s best to reduce your speed in half when driving in snowy conditions. For example, if the speed limit is 50mph, you should go 25mph.
• What Gear Should You Have Handy? Storing a winter safety kit in your car will benefit you greatly. Pack jumper cables, essential car tools, and a first aid kit, to name a few items.
• How Much Stopping Distance Is Needed? Braking at 6-10 seconds behind a car will ensure safer stopping.
• What Do You Do When Sliding? When oversteering, steer in the direction of the skid and slowly accelerate for complete control. If you need to correct understeering, take your foot off the accelerator. Turn the wheel straight until your front tires gain grip. 
• How Do You Drive Uphill & Downhill? When driving uphill, accelerate a little more before reaching the hill to gain momentum. For going downhill, gently tap the brakes and operate at a low gear with a slow speed.

Trust Yankee Ford for Your Safe Winter Driving

Winterizing your vehicle is essential for safety on the roads. If you’re from South Portland or new to our wintery conditions, we want you to be prepared. Knowing how to prepare your car for cold weather will ensure smooth traveling. Education on the proper equipment to pack in an emergency will protect you and your family. Schedule an appointment with us if you need service. Contact our dealership for any questions.