Nothing brings those of us at Colorado Auto Body more holiday cheer than seeing our customers’ smiling faces. Given the nature of the business, however, we don’t want to see them too often; customer safety and satisfaction are our primary concern.

Take the roads by storm (ideally not in a storm) during the winter months after checking out our top winter preparation tips for your vehicle. May your season be full of joy and free of stress.

A Gas Tank Half Full

Nothing puts a hold on winter plans quite like a frozen gas tank.

Try to keep your gas tank filled at least halfway at all times. Not only does this ensure that you’ll never run out of fuel, but it also reduces the likelihood of moisture seeping into the gas lines and freezing. Don’t let poor fuel management put your plans on ice.

Refuel Fluids

Much like human body, a vehicle relies on a number of liquids to keep moving.

It’s recommended that you clean, flush out, and replace your cooling system’s antifreeze every two years. If it’s time, make sure to do so before winter hits. Otherwise, your vehicle may overheat from trying to overcompensate in the cold weather. Be certain to check for leaks too.

Likewise, check your oil early too. Dirty oil does no vehicle good, and you may want to seek lower viscosity oil or “winter weight oil” for chilly temperatures.

Check on the windshield wiper fluid too.

Keep the Good Times Rolling

Most winter preparation tips boil down to keeping your vehicle in top shape before the most tumultuous weather arrives. It’s all about inspection, renovation, and replacement. The same goes for your tires.

Check on your tire pressure and tire tread depth. Pressure should be high and tread depth should be deep. Inspect pressure on a weekly basis.

If ice is a frequent issue in your area, consider upgrading to winter tires. They bring safety and assurance while driving.

Though this is more of a “mid-winter” tip, we recommend driving your car slowly upon start-up. In cooler temperatures, tires morph into “square tires” because warm air rises in cooler temperatures. Fortunately, your tires will round out as you drive.

Miscellaneous Maintenance

Snow and winter weather makes for an ongoing onslaught against your vehicle; every aspect needs to be checked regularly.

The vehicle’s battery and internal charging system undergoes great strain during the winter; be certain yours can handle it.

Snowflakes falling from the sky can be both charming and perilous. Windshield wiper blades should be replaced every six months; consider doing so before winter strikes. For the most blustery areas, try out winter-designed wiper blades.

Other general items that need to be checked out early: brakes, exterior and interior lights, heater, and defrosters. Have a specialist check for carbon monoxide leaks. The deadly gas poses a greater risk as windows are rolled up.

Always Be Prepared

Every vehicle should feature an emergency kit to prepare for less-than-ideal circumstances.

A proper emergency kit should have: a snowbrush, blanket, dry food, jumper cables, scraper, flashlight, flares, extra clothes, and bottled water. There should also be a spare tire that boasts sufficient tire pressure.

By checking up your vehicle at Colorado Auto Body, you shouldn’t need to use your emergency kit. But it’s much better to be safe than sorry.