Ways To Protect Your Vehicle From Winter Damage
![blog 20 photo 1]()
As the temperature drops and the snow starts to fall, your vehicle faces a tough battle against the elements. Salt, snow, ice, and frigid air can take a serious toll on your vehicle if you're not careful. Fortunately, protecting your vehicle this winter doesn't have to be a headache. Here's how you can keep your ride in top shape, even when Old Man Winter is throwing his worst at it.
1. Keep Your Car Clean
Road salt is a necessary evil in Alberta winters, but it can lead to rust if buildup is left. Salt can cling to your vehicle's undercarriage, wheels, and body, causing corrosion over time. Be sure to wash your vehicle regularly during the winter months--especially the undercarriage--where salt tends to accumulate. If you're not keen on the cold, get your car professionally washed at one of those heated bays--like Drayton Valley Ford! Your vehicle will thank you!
2. The Snow Way to Go
When the roads get slick, your tires need to step up. Winter tires are designed to handle cold temperatures, icy roads, and snow. Don't let all-season tires trick you into thinking they're up for the job--they're not always the best option in Alberta. If you don't already have winter tires, now's the time to make the swap. And don't forget to check tire pressure regularly! Cold air causes tire pressure to drop, so keep an eye on it for better traction and safety.
3. Don't Let Your Car's Battery Freeze
Winter mornings can be brutal on your battery, and if yours is on its last legs, it might decide to quit when you need it most. Cold weather makes batteries work harder, so make sure your battery is in good shape. If your ride is having trouble starting, it could be a sign that the battery is losing its charge. A quick check by our technicians can save you from being stuck with a dead battery on a snowy morning. If you end up stranded, we offer a Battery Boosting Service, give us a call to get boosted and on your way again!
4. Don't Let Your Fluids Freeze
When temperatures drop, fluids in your car can thicken or freeze. Make sure you're using the right oil and windshield washer fluid for winter conditions, and check your coolant levels regularly. Bonus tip: Always keep a jug of washer fluid in your trunk for emergency top-ups during those stormy days!
5. Optional: Car Cover or Garage?
If you don't have a garage, a car cover can be a lifesaver. It will protect your vehicle from snow, ice, and falling branches, keeping your car clean and safe from the worst of the winter weather.
Taking a few simple steps to protect your vehicle during the colder months can save you from major headaches down the road. From washing off that salty residue to making sure your battery isn't frozen in its tracks, winter car care doesn't have to be a hassle. Just remember: Keep it clean, keep it warm, and keep it rolling smoothly--because nobody likes a vehicle that's "snowed in"!
