In January 2026, we experienced a winter weather snow and ice storm that this area of North Carolina hasn't seen in quite some time. When severe winter weather strikes, making sure your vehicle is ready can mean the difference between a safe trip and being stranded in the cold.
Use this comprehensive checklist to ensure your car, truck, or SUV is fully prepared for sub-freezing temperatures, snow, and ice.
🛠️ Essential Services: Get Done Now
- Test Your Battery: Cold weather slows chemical reactions, which can easily kill a weak battery. Have yours tested before temperatures plummet.
- Switch to Cold-Weather Washer Fluid: Standard fluid will freeze on your windshield. Upgrade to a rated cold-weather formula to keep your visibility clear in sub-freezing temperatures.
- Check Tire Pressures: Cold air causes tire pressure to drop by about 1 PSI for every 10-degree Fahrenheit drop. Ensure your tires are set to your specific vehicle manufacturer's recommendation-do not overfill!
- Brake Inspection: Have your rotors, pads, and calipers inspected to guarantee you have full stopping power when dealing with slick, hazardous road conditions.
- Block Heater Check: If your vehicle is equipped with a block heater, ensure it is operational and plug it in whenever temperatures drop below 20°F to protect your engine and speed up cabin heating.
- Comprehensive Fluid Check: Check your engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, diesel exhaust fluid, transfer case, and axle fluid. Preventative maintenance saves you time, money, and comfort in the freezing cold.
- Inspect Tire Tread: Make sure your tread isn't excessively worn. If you know you'll be driving through heavy snow and ice, consider upgrading to dedicated winter tread tires.
Need help with these services? Don't wait for the first freeze-schedule an appointment with our expert service department today!
🎒 Build Your Winter Emergency Kit
If you get stuck or stranded, having the right supplies on hand is essential for safety and comfort. Pack these items in your trunk:
- Ice scraper and snow brush
- Collapsible snow shovel
- Jumper cables or a portable jump pack
- Flashlight (with extra batteries)
- Warm gloves and a heavy-duty blanket
- Portable phone charger / power bank
- Bag of sand or cat litter (for emergency traction if stuck)
- Non-perishable snacks and bottled water
Pro-Tips for Winter Driving in NC
- Keep Your Gas Tank Above Half: Keeping your fuel level high prevents moisture from condensing and freezing inside your fuel lines.
- Check Your Spare Tire: Verify that your spare tire is properly inflated and that you have all the necessary tools to change a flat in cold weather.
- Test Your Heating System: Turn on your heater and defroster before freezing weather arrives so you have plenty of time to get repairs if your system isn't blowing hot.
- Tires for Our Climate: While standard all-season tires are generally acceptable for most winter driving conditions in North Carolina, consider winter tread tires if you frequently commute through high elevations or icy mountain passes.
- Underbody Protection: If you live or travel in areas that treat roads with salt, consider a wax- or oil-based undercoating to protect your frame and suspension from rust and corrosion.
Stay safe on the roads this winter. Stop by or contact our service team today to get your vehicle winter-ready!
