How to Protect Your Car from Frigid Weather


Tips for getting your car ready for winter

Photo via blog.obd365.com

Now that we’re in the thick of winter, it’s probably a good idea to keep a close eye on your car as temperatures continue to dip, especially if you live in the northern part of the country. While many of the tips below may seem like common sense, we’ve seen far too many cars stranded on the side of the road (on in driveways) when temperatures dip below freezing and the snowstorms come rolling in.

Below, we’ve shared a list of winter tips, courtesy of the Moran Family of Brands, one of the nation’s leading franchises of transmission and general automotive repairs.

Remove corrosion from battery terminal connectors

Take Care of the Battery

  • Winter weather causes the car’s electrical system to work harder and cold temperatures can reduce battery power by 50%. Be sure to check the battery cables and clamps for fraying or corrosion and keep track of the battery’s age. Most will last 3-5 years.
Top off anti-freeze to keep fluids from thickening

Monitor Your Fluids

  • Keep antifreeze/coolant mix at the appropriate levels to keep fluids from freezing.
  • Use a lighter grade oil in the winter months to prevent the oil from thickening in cold temperatures and causing unwanted friction in the engine.
  • Keep the gas tank half full in the winter to decrease the chances of moisture from condensation freezing and blocking the flow of gas in the fuel lines.
Check Your Tire Pressure in Winter

Cold air can lower tire pressure and lead to a flat

Check Your Tires

  • Winter temperatures cause the air in tires to contract and drop in pressure, so be sure to keep your tires properly inflated. You can find the suggested pounds per square inch in your owner’s manual. Properly inflated tires can increase gas mileage by as much as three percent.
Keeping Car Clean in Winter

Good wiper blades help keep windshield clear

Clean Your Car to See the Road

  • Make sure wiper blades are in proper working order and free of cracking and deteriorating.
  • Clear all snow and ice from the windshield for proper visibility.
  • Test defrosters and allow time for condensation to clear from the windshield.

Winter Survival Car Kit

Create a Winter Weather Kit

  • Keep an emergency kit inside your vehicle that includes a flashlight, jumper cables, cell phone charger, ice scraper, snow brush, blanket, bottled water, and snacks.
  • Keep a supply of salt, sand or cat litter in the trunk to spread on ice for better traction.

Find Exotic Car Rentals from Rent It Today


Planning to travel to brighter and warmer horizons during the cold winter months of your hometown? Rent It Today can help liven up your winter getaway. The most comprehensive rental resource online, Rent It Today can put you in touch with rental companies offering luxury car rentals in your area. From Porsches and Bentleys to Lamborghinis and Ferraris, Rent It Today provides listings of the most luxurious rental cars on the planet.

For more information, visit www.rentittoday.com!

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