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Winterize Your Car

December 19, 2025
Published Blog Posts
2 min read

How to Winterize Your Car: Essential Checklist for 2025-2026

Winter car preparation checklist including battery test, tires, coolant, and emergency kit

Comprehensive winter car care checklist to keep you safe on the road

Winter weather can be unpredictable—even in milder climates like Spring, Texas. Cold snaps, ice, or travel to colder areas make it smart to **winterize your car** for reliability and safety. At LMC Complete Automotive, we offer complete winter preparation services, including battery testing, fluid checks, tire inspections, and more.

Follow this updated guide to **winterize your vehicle** and avoid breakdowns during the 2025-2026 season.

1. Test and Maintain Your Battery

Mechanic testing car battery during winter preparation

Cold weather reduces battery power—get it tested before winter hits

Cold temperatures can reduce battery capacity by up to 50%.

  • Test battery health (free at our shop)
  • Clean terminals and check connections
  • Replace if over 3-4 years old

2. Check Antifreeze/Coolant Levels and Strength

Mechanic checking and adding antifreeze coolant for winter car preparation

Proper coolant protects against freezing and overheating

  • Verify 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water
  • Flush and replace if old or contaminated
  • Inspect hoses and radiator for leaks

3. Inspect Tires for Winter Traction

Checking tire tread depth and pressure for winter driving safety

Good tread and proper inflation are crucial for wet/icy roads

  • Check tread depth (at least 6/32″ for winter)
  • Ensure proper inflation (colder air lowers pressure)
  • Consider switching to winter tires if traveling north
  • Rotate and balance as needed

4. Prepare Visibility and Wipers

  • Replace worn wiper blades
  • Use winter-formula washer fluid (freezes at lower temps)
  • Clear ice scraper and snow brush
  • Test defrosters, heater, and lights

5. Build a Winter Emergency Kit

Winter emergency kit items in car trunk including blanket, food, and tools

Essential winter emergency kit can be a lifesaver if stranded

Pack in your trunk:

  • Blanket, gloves, hat
  • Non-perishable snacks and water
  • Flashlight and batteries
  • First aid kit
  • Jumper cables and portable charger
  • Ice scraper, small shovel, traction aids

6. Additional Winter Checks

  • Change to fresh oil if due
  • Test brakes and alignment
  • Check exhaust for leaks (deadly in closed garage)
  • Ensure 4WD/AWD systems work if equipped

Let LMC Complete Automotive Winterize Your Car

Professional winter vehicle preparation service at auto shop

Our comprehensive winter check ensures your car is ready for anything

We provide:

  • Multi-point winter inspection
  • Battery, coolant, tire, and fluid services
  • Roadside-ready emergency prep
  • Transparent recommendations

Conclusion: Stay Safe This Winter

Winterizing your car takes a little time but prevents big problems. Even in Texas, a prepared vehicle means peace of mind for local driving or holiday travel.

Ready to winterize? Schedule your appointment at LMC Complete Automotive today.

Visit our scheduling page or contact us for expert winter preparation.

Updated December 2025 for the 2025-2026 winter season.

For more winter driving tips, see AAA’s winter car preparation guide.