There are people that simply dream of living in a winter wonderland… and then there are those that actually get to live the dream IRL. 

But along with the fun of building snowmen, delectable scents of chestnuts roaring over an open fire and a picture-perfect winter wonderland image to greet you 24/7, you also have the less fun parts of winter to contend with: namely, that seemingly never-ending supply of slush, mud… and snow-covered roads that unfortunately often have minds of their own. 

Move aside “sweater weather,” it’s time to focus on “snow tire weather” and “freeze-proof your trunk weather.” Keep the best parts of winter by remaining vigilant on your winter prep guide. Here’s our Winter Rx: Cold Weather Survival Guide: 

Your mechanic should check belts, hoses, fluids, and the exhaust systems to minimize risk of clamps, leaks, and other mechanical breakdowns. 

Naturally, you always want to ensure your headlights are in tip-top shape all year long. But let’s face it, driving conditions in the fall and winter are different than during months of pure sunshine. Grime accumulates quickly and you’ll want to repeatedly clean your lights so you can see oncoming traffic clearly (and vice versa for pedestrians and other motorists). 

Even a relatively new battery can fail when temps get really cold. If you live in a region that gets hit with lots of snow, make sure your battery is designed for frigid temperatures, with a high-number of cold-cranking amps.

Ideally, you can keep your car in a garage or covered parking area to help prevent freeze-outs, but otherwise consider a vehicle tarp or car cover that will fit over your vehicle to protect it from winter’s harsh conditions.  

Water can get into the door and trunk locks and do its cold-weather dark magic (namely, freeze your doors shut and lock you out of your own car). To thwart this before it starts: lubricate locks with silicone spray or door-lock lubricant. Or if already frozen, use a lock antifreeze product to help them thaw out. 

The elements can be harsh on windshield wipers, particularly if they’re constantly being ambushed by rain, snow, and hail. Replace worn or dried-out wiper blades regularly, experts recommend about every 6-12 months.

To read more, check out our blog: Time to Replace Your Windshield Wipers? 

Of course, also check that washer fluid reservoirs are full and protected with sufficient antifreeze in the winter months. 

File this one in the same category of important-for-all-seasons, but properly inflated tires with ample tread is ultra-important when paving through heavy snow.   Consider snow or winter tires if you live in a region where blizzards are typical. 

Know if and when chains and studded tires can be used. Snow chains provide serious traction on ice and snow and help prevent dangerous skids — but not all regions are in favor of them and may also have specific regulations for size and how and when they can be used.    

Find out the laws of your state. 

Don’t get left out in the cold unprepared. Always have your Winter Survival Emergency Kit on hand (along with your Year-Long Emergency Kit). 

Check out even more winter blogs to stay winter ready, like:

• Car Thefts Spike in Winter: Don’t Leave Your Car to Warm Up Unattended

• Do's and Don'ts of How to De-Ice Your Windshield

• 6 Ways to Defend Yourself Against Drunk Drivers

Dreaming of when temps warm up? You can always live vicariously with our warmer weather blogs, like 5 Essential Summer Car Care Tips and Car Air Conditioning: Maximize Your Cool Factor. 

What are you waiting for? Join the ride and get a quote today and see how techno-driven coverage can lower your premiums.