Shabby Chic Boho Winter has a way of sneaking up on you, and while most people remember to prep their houses to avoid winter disasters at home, far fewer give their cars the same attention.
Yet your vehicle faces freezing temperatures, icy roads, salt, and unpredictable weather every single day. A little preparation now can save you from breakdowns.
#1. Replace an Aging Battery
Low temperatures reduce battery power and make it harder for the engine to start, meaning a unit that seemed “fine” in autumn can suddenly die without warning in January.
If your battery is more than three years old and struggles to start the car, now’s the time to replace it. A quick inspection before winter settles in could be the difference between a smooth start on frosty mornings and being stuck waiting for help.
#2. Check Your Tires for Winter
Your tires are the only part of the car that actually touches the road, so they need to be ready for ice, slush, and snow.
Winter tires offer better grip and shorter braking distances. Even if winter tires aren’t required where you live, they can dramatically boost safety, especially in regions with a lot of snow.
#3. Protect Your Car’s Paintwork
Road salt keeps ice away, but it can wreak havoc on your car’s paint and metalwork. Salt sticks to wheel arches and panels. In the long term, it will encourage rust. Regular washing can only do so much. Ideally, you want a layer of quality wax to create a protective barrier this winter.
#4. Pack Snow Chains
If you live in a place with a lot of snow every year, having snow chains in your car can be a real game-changer.
But chains aren’t going to be of much use if you don’t know how to put them on. So, it’s worth taking time to practice putting them on and off before you’re stuck in freezing temperatures on the side of the road.
#5. Keep a Winter Survival Kit
You never know when you’ll find yourself stranded in the snow. That’s why it’s such a good idea to keep some warm and emergency items in your vehicle at all times. A few spare sweaters, some warm gloves, and a blanket could be just what you need to stay safe. And don’t forget to toss in some snacks.
#6. Keep Your Windscreen Winter-Ready
A grimy windscreen becomes a serious hazard once winter arrives.
Dirt and salt from the road cling to the glass, allowing ice to stick more easily. Combine that with low winter sun, and glare can turn a short trip into a dangerous one.
So, keep the windscreen clean, top up the washer fluid with a winter-grade formula, and swap old wipers for fresh ones. Clear visibility can make all the difference on the roads.
#7. Know When It’s Time to Upgrade
Some vehicles simply aren’t built for another harsh winter. If your car breaks down often and feels unsafe in icy conditions despite all your preparations, it may be time to stop pouring money into repairs.
Investing in a newer, more reliable model can save you stress. Exploring the Subaru new inventory is a smart place to start, especially if you want a car designed to handle winter roads with confidence.
Winter safety is not all luck. It’s about how you’ve prepared your vehicle and how you handle the harsh weather. Be prepared, this winter.
Featured image: Unsplash – CC0 License
