As winter approaches, it's crucial to ensure your Honda is ready to handle the colder months. This is because winter brings unique challenges that can impact your vehicle's performance and safety, such as low temperatures, visibility issues, and icy roads.At Zeigler Honda of Racine, our certified Honda service team is here to help you prepare your car, truck, or SUV for winter with expert Honda maintenance tips. Here's a guide to keeping your Honda running smoothly and safely all winter long.
1. Test Your Battery
Cold temperatures put additional strain on car batteries, and nobody wants to be stranded with a dead battery in the freezing weather. At Zeigler Honda of Racine, we'll test your battery's charge and recommend a replacement if needed. A strong battery is essential for reliable winter starts, so it's worth having it checked by professionals who understand a Honda vehicle's specific needs.2. Switch to Winter Tires
Winter tires offer superior traction on snow and ice compared to all-season tires, which makes a big difference in Wisconsin's icy conditions. Our Honda maintenance experts can help you select and install the right winter tires for your model. Proper tread depth and tire pressure are essential for safe winter driving, so our team will also check and adjust your tire pressure, as it tends to drop with the temperature.3. Check and Refill Fluids
Your Honda relies on several essential fluids to perform well year-round. In winter, however, the right fluid levels are especially important. During your winter prep visit, our Honda experts will check and top-up the following:- Antifreeze/Coolant: This keeps your engine from freezing and helps it maintain an optimal temperature.
- Windshield Wiper Fluid: We recommend using a winter-specific formula to prevent freezing and improve visibility.
- Oil: Some drivers prefer switching to winter-grade oil for better engine performance in cold temperatures.
4. Inspect Wipers and Defrosters
Clear visibility is vital in winter, as snowfall and icy conditions can impair your view. That's why it's vital to replace worn wiper blades and test your defrosters. Our team at Zeigler Honda of Racine can install heavy-duty winter wiper blades designed to handle snow and ice. This will ensure you have the best possible view on those frosty Wisconsin days.5. Prepare an Emergency Kit
Driving can be unpredictable, so it's wise to have an emergency kit in your Honda-particularly during those more challenging winter months. Pack items like a blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, ice scraper, and a first-aid kit. Whether you're heading out on a long drive past Milwaukee or commuting locally within Racine, an emergency kit can provide peace of mind if you're caught in bad weather.Schedule a Winter Inspection with Zeigler Honda of Racine
Before the temperature drops, schedule a comprehensive winter inspection at Zeigler Honda of Racine. Our Honda maintenance team will check vital systems, including your battery, tires, brakes, wiper blades, heating, and defroster, to ensure everything is in top condition for winter.