Cold, snow, ice and road salt are hard on a car. Here is how to get tires, battery, fluids, wipers and paint ready for a Brooklyn winter.
As winter approaches in Brooklyn, it's important to prepare your car for the colder months. Winter weather is tough on a vehicle, and the right steps now help it run smoothly and safely through the season.
Why winterizing matters
Cold temperatures, snow and ice wear on a car. Proper maintenance prevents the usual winter problems: dead batteries, frozen fuel lines and slipping on icy roads.
- Safety: a winterized car is ready for icy roads, snow and low visibility.
- A longer life: maintenance through the winter means fewer expensive repairs.
- Reliable starts: the car starts and runs smoothly in freezing temperatures.
Getting the car ready
1. Check your tires
Tires are the only part of the car that touches the road, so they decide your grip in winter.
- Winter tires: their tread pattern and rubber compound grip better on ice and snow.
- Tire pressure: cold weather lowers it. Keep the tires at the recommended pressure.
- Tread depth: worn tires lose traction in snow. Make sure there is enough tread left.
2. Look after the battery
Cold weather is hard on batteries. To avoid being stranded:
- Have the battery tested to make sure it holds a charge.
- Clean the terminals: corrosion weakens the connection.
- Replace an old or weak battery before winter sets in.
3. Oil and fluids
- Oil: use the grade your owner's manual recommends for cold weather.
- Coolant (antifreeze): check the level; it keeps the engine from freezing.
- Washer fluid: switch to a winter formula that won't freeze.
4. Wipers and lights
Winter cuts visibility, so make sure you can see and be seen:
- Replace wiper blades that are cracked or worn.
- Keep the washer fluid topped up.
- Check the headlights, brake lights and turn signals.
5. Protect the paint and underbody
Winter roads are treated with salt and chemicals that damage paint and the underbody:
- Wash the car regularly to remove salt and grime, and wax it to protect the paint.
- Consider an undercoating to protect the underbody from rust.
Driving safely in winter
- Drive slowly and carefully: reduce your speed on ice and snow to keep control.
- Carry an emergency kit: a blanket, flashlight, food, water and jumper cables.
We check tires, batteries, fluids and lights at our shop at 300 McGuinness Boulevard in Greenpoint. Call (718) 349-9742, Monday to Saturday from 8 AM to 6 PM.
