Is your vehicle ready for winter? Hello to our cold weather checklist!

November is here, and if you’re in Wisconsin, or neighboring state, you know what that means: winter is coming, and it’s not messing around. Between freezing temperatures, icy roads, and surprise snowstorms, your vehicle is about to face some serious challenges.

The question is: Is your car ready for what’s ahead?

Don’t wait until you’re stranded in a parking lot with a dead battery or sliding on bald tires. Use this checklist to make sure you and your vehicle are prepared for whatever winter throws your way.

Why Winter Vehicle Prep Matters

Cold weather is tough on cars. Batteries lose power, fluids thicken, tires lose pressure, and parts that were “fine” in summer suddenly fail when temperatures drop.

Here’s what’s at stake: - Your safety on icy, snowy roads - Avoiding costly breakdowns and towing fees - Keeping your family warm and secure - Not missing work because your car won’t start

A little prevention now saves a lot of headaches (and money) later. The Winter-Ready Vehicle Checklist

✅ 1. Battery Health

Why it matters: Cold weather can reduce battery power by 30-50%. If your battery is already weak, winter will kill it.

What to check: - Battery age (most last 3-5 years) - Corrosion on terminals - Secure connections - Voltage test (should be 12.4V or higher)

Action step: Get a free battery test at Dedicated Repair. If it’s borderline, replace it now—not when it’s 10°F outside.

✅ 2. Tires

Why it matters: Tires are your only contact with the road. Worn tires on ice = dangerous.

What to check: - Tread depth (use the penny test: insert a penny into tread with Lincoln’s head upside down—if you can see all of his head, replace your tires) - Tire pressure (drops 1 PSI for every 10°F temperature decrease) - Uneven wear patterns - Age of tires (replace after 6 years regardless of tread)

Action step: Check tire pressure weekly in winter. Consider winter tires if you drive in heavy snow regularly.

✅ 3. Antifreeze/Coolant

Why it matters: Coolant prevents your engine from freezing and cracking in sub-zero temps.

What to check: - Coolant level (should be between min/max lines) - Color (should be bright, not rusty or murky) - Freeze point (should protect to at least -30°F)

Action step: Have your coolant tested and flushed if it’s been more than 2 years.

✅ 4. Oil

Why it matters: Oil thickens in cold weather, making it harder for your engine to start and run smoothly.

What to check: - Oil level and condition - Type of oil (consider switching to synthetic for better cold-weather performance) - Last oil change date

Action step: If you’re due for an oil change, do it before winter hits. Ask about synthetic oil for better winter protection.

✅ 5. Windshield Wipers & Washer Fluid

Why it matters: You can’t drive safely if you can’t see. Winter brings salt spray, slush, and grime.

What to check: - Wiper blade condition (replace if streaking or skipping) - Washer fluid level - Type of washer fluid (use winter formula rated to -20°F or lower)

Action step: Replace wipers now if they’re more than 6 months old. Top off with winter-grade washer fluid.

✅ 6. Belts & Hoses

Why it matters: Cold makes rubber brittle. A snapped belt or burst hose can leave you stranded.

What to check: - Cracks, fraying, or glazing on belts - Soft spots, bulges, or leaks in hoses - Tight connections

Action step: Have belts and hoses inspected during your next service. Replace anything questionable.

✅ 7. Brakes

Why it matters: Stopping on ice is already hard. Worn brakes make it dangerous.

What to check: - Brake pad thickness - Brake fluid level and condition - Any grinding, squealing, or vibration when braking

Action step: Get a brake inspection if you’ve noticed any warning signs or haven’t had them checked in over a year.

✅ 8. Lights

Why it matters: Winter means shorter days and reduced visibility. You need all your lights working.

What to check: - Headlights (low and high beam) - Taillights and brake lights - Turn signals - Fog lights (if equipped)

Action step: Walk around your car with someone inside testing each light. Replace any burned-out bulbs.

✅ 9. Heating & Defrost System

Why it matters: A working heater isn’t just comfort—it’s safety. You need defrost to clear windows.

What to check: - Heat output (should get warm within 5-10 minutes) - Defrost effectiveness - Blower motor operation at all speeds - Strange smells when heat is on

Action step: If your heat is weak or defrost isn’t working, get it checked ASAP.

✅ 10. Emergency Kit

Why it matters: Even with perfect prep, emergencies happen. Be ready.

What to include: - Jumper cables or portable jump starter - Ice scraper and snow brush - Small shovel - Bag of sand or kitty litter (for traction) - Blanket - Flashlight with extra batteries - First aid kit - Phone charger - Non-perishable snacks and water - Reflective warning triangles

Action step: Assemble your kit this weekend and keep it in your trunk all winter. The Bottom Line

Winter doesn’t care if your car is ready. But you should.

Going through this checklist now; before the first big storm...could save you from: - Being stranded in the cold - Expensive emergency repairs - Dangerous driving conditions - Missing important commitments

Most of these checks take just a few minutes Let Dedicated Repair Get You Winter-Ready

Not sure where to start? Bring your vehicle to Dedicated Repair for a comprehensive winter readiness inspection. We’ll check all the critical systems, identify any issues, and get you road-ready before the worst weather hits.

Our Winter Prep Service Includes: - Battery test and inspection - Tire pressure check and tread inspection - Fluid level checks and top-offs - Belt and hose inspection - Brake system check - Lights inspection - Heating and defrost system test

Don’t wait until you’re stuck in a snowbank or dealing with a dead battery at 6 AM. Schedule your winter prep appointment today.

📍 Dedicated Repair📞920-863-2967 🌐 dedicatedrepair.com

Stay safe out there this winter. We’ve got your back (and your vehicle’s back, too). Reminder friends, that if you find yourself broke down on the side of the road, we do offer roadside assistance, so save our phone number, you just might need it!

Pro Tip: Print this checklist and keep it in your glove box. Check off items as you complete them, and you’ll have peace of mind all winter long.