How to Winterize your Honda

Drive Confidently through Winter: Key Tips to Winterize your Car

You may have noticed that it’s winter here in Minnesota. Maybe you noticed around the holidays (we wouldn’t blame you if you missed it this year) or maybe you noticed this week when the wind made your face hurt. While we’d all like to stay home with a mug of hot chocolate until spring, you likely will need to leave the house for something. In the likely event you have to go….somewhere, you want to make sure that you won’t end up stranded on the side of the road, especially if you can do something to prevent that from happening. Winterizing your vehicle is crucial to ensure optimal performance, safety, and reliability during the cold months. Check through these essential tips to winterize your care and keep you confidently cruising through winter wonderlands.

• Look at your Tires
  • Your tires are the first line of defense against slippery roads. I get it you have AWD and plenty of ground clearance, but if you have bald tires with negative tread, all your variable traction control is gonna do is get you stuck further (the guy writing this can attest to that). Check your tire pressure regularly and keep them properly inflated; it’s exceptionally common to have low tire pressure warnings in extreme cold. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, consider investing in a set of winter tires.
• Inspect Your Battery
  • Cold temperatures can put a strain on your car battery. Have your battery tested to ensure it’s in good condition and fully charged. If it’s more than a few years old, consider replacing it. There is very little more frustrating than a dead battery when you’re already running late to work and have lost all feeling in your fingers (we’ve all been there, and it sucks)
• Check your Fluids
  • Start by checking essential fluids. Ensure that your engine oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid are at the recommended levels (and changed recently, in the case of your oil). Cold weather can affect the viscosity of various fluids, so using the right types for winter conditions is crucial.
• Replace Wiper Blades
  • After you make sure you have appropriate levels of washer fluid, inspect your wiper blades. Visibility is crucial, don’t let worn out wipers slow you down; replace your wiper blades if needed, and ensure that your washer fluid is a winter-grade that won’t freeze in cold temperatures.
• Prepare an Emergency Kit
  • Be prepared for unexpected winter challenges by putting together an emergency kit. Items you (hopefully never) need include blanket(s), flashlight, first aid supplies, and jumper cables. Remember what your dad told you when you first got a car- “prepare for the worst, but hope for the best.”
• Protect your Exterior
  • Shield your car from the harsh winter elements by giving it a thorough wash and protective coating. We salt the roads more than our food, and that will have a negative impact on your car’s exterior and shorten the life of your Honda.
• Keep Fuel in the Tank
  • Condensation can form in an empty fuel tank, leading to potential issues. Keep your tank away from “E” during the worst of winter to minimize the risk of fuel line freeze-ups

Winterizing your car is a series of proactive steps toward a safe and stress-free winter driving experience. By following these essential tips, you’ll not only protect your vehicle but also ensure that you’re ready to tackle whatever winter throws your way. Stay safe, stay warm, and enjoy the winter season with confidence on the road!