5 Winter Maintenance Tips From Our Repair Shop

The frigid, snowy conditions of winter can be tough on vehicles. However, when you spend a little time and effort on winter maintenance, you can keep yourself safe and stop freezing temperatures, ice, and snow from damaging your vehicle. Review these five winter maintenance tips from our repair shop and feel more confident as you drive during the colder months.

Inflate Your Tires Correctly

When temperatures drop in the winter, your tires lose pressure, which can impact your handling and traction on icy or snowy roads. Keeping your tires underinflated can cause them to develop wear and tear, while filling them up too much can cause them to lose contact with the road.

Checking your tire pressure regularly will ensure that you stay within the recommended levels specified in your owner's manual. Paying attention to your tires is vital for a smooth and safe winter drive.

Take Your Battery in for a Test

The extreme winter cold can weaken your car’s battery. During winter, many people find that their vehicles struggle or outright fail to start.

Take the time to have a professional test your battery, or consider purchasing a new one if it is more than three years old. This can prevent you from having an inconvenient breakdown that leaves you stranded in the cold.

Maintain Your Fluids

Another winter maintenance tip from our repair shop is to maintain your vehicle’s fluids. They play an important role in keeping your car running smoothly, especially during winter. Cold weather can thicken motor oil, brake, and power steering fluid, lowering their efficiency.



Checking fluid levels enhances your car's resilience on freezing days. Windshield wiper fluid needs attention as well, so consider switching to a formula that prevents freezing and keeps the road visible.

Don’t Let Your Fuel Get Low

This winter, keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent your gas line from freezing. Moisture in a near-empty tank may freeze in low temperatures, leading to a blocked fuel line that leaves you stranded.

Additionally, vehicles with ample fuel are better equipped to tackle surprises like severe weather or long traffic delays. A fuller tank adds peace of mind and keeps potential problems at bay when snowstorms hit.

Check Your Vehicle's Lights

Shorter daylight hours make it critical to ensure your lights are functional and visible during winter. Examine your headlights, taillights, turn signals, and brake lights and confirm they have working bulbs and clean lenses. Bright, clear lights will improve your visibility and allow others to see you on the road.

Although cold weather puts vehicles through their paces, these maintenance tips can help you tackle seasonal driving challenges head-on. However, if you need a Buffalo Grove auto repair shop that can provide you with further help during these frosty times, contact Advanced Vehicle Technology Services. Let us make it easier for you to navigate these wintery conditions.