Winter Car Care: Essential Tips to Prepare Your Vehicle for Cold Weather in Evansville and Newburgh, Indiana

Winter in Southern Indiana can bring unpredictable weather, with chilly temperatures, icy roads, and the occasional snowfall. For drivers in Evansville, Newburgh, and the surrounding areas, this means it’s essential to ensure your vehicle is ready for the cold months ahead. At Larry’s Automotive, we understand the importance of winterizing your car to keep it running smoothly and safely throughout the season.

Our experienced, ASE-certified team has put together some vital winter car care tips to help you prepare for winter’s worst.

Here’s how to ensure your vehicle is fully prepped and ready to tackle whatever winter throws your way.

1. Battery Check: Don’t Get Left in the Cold

Cold temperatures can take a toll on your car’s battery, reducing its ability to hold a charge. The last thing you want on a freezing morning is to find yourself stranded with a dead battery. At Larry’s Automotive, we recommend having your battery checked as part of your winter prep routine. Our technicians can assess its strength, clean the terminals, and, if necessary, replace it with a new battery to ensure it performs reliably all winter long.

Why it matters: Batteries lose power as the temperature drops, and a weak battery may not withstand a sudden cold snap.

By testing it now, you’ll avoid any unwanted surprises when you need your vehicle most.

2. Tire Inspection: Grip the Road with Confidence

Tires are a critical component of safe winter driving, especially with the icy and wet conditions that can develop on Evansville and Newburgh roads. As the weather cools, it’s essential to check your tire tread, pressure, and overall condition. Good tread depth helps provide grip on slippery surfaces, and properly inflated tires perform better in cold conditions.

What we recommend:

Tire Tread: The tread should be at least 2/32 of an inch, but for winter, deeper tread is preferred. If your tires are worn, consider replacing them before winter sets in.

Tire Pressure: Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop. Keeping them properly inflated can improve traction and fuel efficiency.

Winter Tires: If you frequently drive in icy or snowy conditions, investing in winter tires can offer additional safety.

Larry’s Automotive can help you assess your current tires and recommend replacements if needed. We also offer tire rotation and alignment services to ensure even wear and optimal performance.

3. Fluid Levels and Antifreeze: Keep Your Engine Protected

Your vehicle relies on various fluids to function correctly, and winter can alter how these fluids behave. Coolant, also known as antifreeze, is particularly important as it helps regulate your engine’s temperature and prevents it from freezing in extreme cold.

Winter checklist for fluids:

Antifreeze: Check the level and condition of your coolant. If necessary, have it topped up or replaced. A 50/50 mix of coolant and water is usually recommended for winter.

Oil Change: Cold weather affects engine oil’s viscosity, which can impact engine performance. At Larry’s Automotive, we recommend switching to a winter-grade oil if your car requires it.

Brake Fluid and Windshield Washer Fluid: Make sure your brake fluid is at the right level, and top off your windshield washer fluid with a winter formula to prevent it from freezing.

Our experienced team at Larry’s Automotive can perform a complete fluid check, ensuring your car is winter-ready and protected from the elements.

4. Wiper Blades and Defrost System: Maintain Visibility

Winter weather can severely impact visibility. Between snow, ice, and slush, having fully functioning wipers and a strong defrost system is crucial for clear sightlines.

Here’s what to check:

Wiper Blades: If your wipers are streaking or leaving spots, it’s time to replace them. Winter wiper blades are specifically designed to handle snow and ice.

Defrost and Heating Systems: Make sure your defrost and heating systems are in good working order. These systems help prevent ice from forming on your windshield, making it safer to drive.

At Larry’s Automotive, we can inspect your defrost and heating systems, replace worn wiper blades, and ensure your vehicle’s visibility features are fully functional for winter.

5. Brakes: Be Prepared for Sudden Stops

Your brakes are one of the most critical safety features of your vehicle, especially on icy or wet roads. Winter conditions can require longer stopping distances, so ensuring your brakes are in peak condition is essential.

Brake checklist:

Brake Pads and Rotors: Have them inspected for wear. If they’re nearing the end of their life, it’s better to replace them now than risk failure on a slick road.

Brake Fluid: Check the fluid level and condition, as brake fluid can absorb moisture, reducing braking efficiency.

Larry’s Automotive’s ASE-certified team can thoroughly inspect your brakes, recommend necessary repairs or replacements, and ensure your vehicle is ready to stop reliably in any weather.

6. Emergency Kit: Be Ready for Any Situation

Even with all the right winter prep, breakdowns or emergencies can still happen. Preparing an emergency kit can provide peace of mind and keep you safe if you’re ever stranded.

Winter emergency kit essentials:

• Blanket and Warm Clothing: In case you’re stuck waiting for help.
• Flashlight and Extra Batteries: Useful for nighttime emergencies.
• Ice Scraper and Snow Brush: Essential tools for clearing windows.
• Jumper Cables and Tire Chains: Jumper cables for a dead battery and chains if conditions are severe.
• Non-Perishable Snacks and Water: Keep some essentials on hand.

Adding these items to your car is a simple step that can make a big difference in an emergency situation.

Why Choose Larry’s Automotive for Your Winter Prep Needs?

Larry’s Automotive has proudly served customers in Newburgh, Evansville, and the surrounding areas for years. As a locally owned, family-operated business, we understand the unique winter challenges drivers in our community face. Our ASE-certified technicians are committed to providing top-notch service and ensuring that every vehicle we work on is safe and winter-ready.

Here’s why customers choose us:

Local Expertise: We know the local driving conditions and tailor our recommendations to meet the needs of drivers in Southern Indiana.

Certified Professionals: Our ASE-certified team brings over 100 years of combined experience, guaranteeing quality service you can trust.

Personalized Service: As a family-owned business, we’re dedicated to providing honest, transparent service with a personal touch.

Whether you’re a resident of Evansville, Newburgh, or a nearby community, Larry’s Automotive is here to help you stay safe on the road this winter.

Schedule Your Winter Prep Appointment Today

Don’t wait until the first snowfall to think about winterizing your car. Preparing your vehicle for the cold season now can help you avoid breakdowns, reduce repair costs, and keep you safe on the road. Let Larry’s Automotive help you get winter-ready with comprehensive services, including battery checks, tire inspections, fluid checks, brake services, and more.

Contact us today to schedule your winter preparation appointment or learn more about how we can help you stay safe this winter. Visit larrysautomotiverepair.com to schedule an appointment or stop by our shop to speak with one of our friendly technicians. Together, we’ll ensure your car is ready to tackle winter’s toughest challenges with confidence.