Winterizing Tips for Southern California Drivers

As the cooler months approach and daylight fades earlier, it's crucial for drivers in California to think about preparing their cars for winter. While California is fortunate to have milder winters compared to other states, taking steps to winterize your vehicle is vital. Proper preparation helps your car run smoothly, enhances safety, and extends its lifespan. In this article, we will explore essential tips for winterizing your vehicle, equipping you with the knowledge to drive confidently all season long.

This page will contain Amazon Affiliate Links for products or items we recommend.

Check Your Battery

The battery is one of the most vital components of your vehicle during winter. Cold temperatures can significantly diminish a battery's ability to perform.

• Inspect the Battery: Look carefully for signs of corrosion around the terminals. If you see any buildup, clean it promptly using a mixture of baking soda and water or schedule an appointment with us for a more thorough cleaning. We remove any corroded cables and clean with professional grade cleaners, treat any acid residue and can even offer a sealant spray if desired to help slow down any future build up.

  
  

• Test the Battery: If your battery is over three years old, stop by to have it tested. We offer free battery testing with any appointment, which can prevent unfortunate surprises.

  
  

• Replace if Necessary: If the battery shows signs of weakness, like taking longer to start the car, consider replacing it. Before labor or programming a new battery typically costs between $140 and $300, providing peace of mind during cold mornings or road trips.

• Battery Tester Link: https://amzn.to/49bJEOX

  
  

Inspect Your Tires

Tires are critical for maintaining traction and safety, especially in wet or slippery conditions.

• Check Tread Depth: Ensure adequate tread depth. Use the penny test—insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln's head down. If you can see all of his head, it's time for new tires. We offer free safety inspections for all tires, brakes, and suspension wear items. Tires measuring 4/32 or lower and tires that are 6 years old or older should be considered for replacement.

  
  

• Check Tire Pressure: Cold weather can lower tire pressure by about 1 PSI for every 10-degree drop in temperature. Inspect and inflate your tires to the manufacturer's recommended pressure, found on a sticker inside the driver’s door. Note all manufacturers list tire pressure recommendations at cold temperatures.

  
  

• Consider Winter Tires: If your area faces heavy rain or snow, investing in winter tires can improve your grip on slick roads. Winter tires can outperform all-season tires by up to 30% in wet and cold conditions.

• Tread Depth Gauge with Case: https://amzn.to/4o2cWnV

• Tire Inflator: https://amzn.to/47lDZDA

Change Your Oil

Oil changes are fundamental for keeping your car healthy, especially during winter.

• Use the Right Oil: We proudly use Liqui Moly Oils that carry all the correct approvals for VW, Audi, Porsche and many more manufacturers. Contact us today with any questions on oil viscosity or optional oil additives for added protection in cold conditions.

  
  

• Change Oil Filter: Always change your oil filter when you replace the oil. A clean and high oil filter helps your engine run smoothly and efficiently, while increasing protection and longevity of your engine. We feature many different European manufactured oil filters. Contact us today for more details on which filter is the correct one for your engine. For all our customers with Japanese cars and American cars, we always use Genuine or OEM filters where applicable.

  
  

Check Your Wipers and Washer Fluid

Visibility is always crucial and even more so during winter.

• Inspect Wiper Blades: Look for cracks or deficiencies in your wiper blades. If they're leaving streaks, it's time for new ones. We never charge labor to replace wiper blades and keep all the popular sizes in stock. Our wipers are always direct replacement without any ugly or bulky adaptors for a factory look and function.

  
  

• Clear Your Washer Jets: Always run your washer jets before a car wash to help keep them clear. You can use a bent paper clip or a tool specifically designed for clearing clogged washer jets. https://amzn.to/4oUrRAF

• Top Off Windshield Washer Fluid: Use winter-grade washer fluid when available to avoid freezing and help keep your windshield clear during rain or fog.

• Washer Fluid Concentrate Tabs: https://amzn.to/3J6S7Zj

Test Your Lights

With daylight fading faster, having functional lights is essential for safe driving.

• Check All Lights: Inspect your headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals to ensure all are functioning correctly.

  
  

• Replace Bulbs if Necessary: Contact us today to replace any burned out bulbs or LED assemblies. We keep all of the popular Xenon bulbs in stock as well as every filament style bulb for most VW, Porsche, and Audi cars and SUVs.

  
  

Inspect Belts and Hoses

Cold weather can stress rubber belts and hoses, leading to breakdowns.

• Check for Cracks or Wear: Inspect your belts for fraying or cracking. Hoses should be examined for leaks or bulges, which can indicate wear or fatigue.

  
  

• Replace if Needed: If you notice issues, replacing belts and hoses before winter can save you from more significant problems down the road.

  
  

Keep an Emergency Kit

Even with proper preparation, being ready for the unexpected is wise.

• Pack an Emergency Kit: Essential items to include are a flashlight, first-aid kit, warm blanket, non-perishable snacks, and water. These can be lifesavers if you get stranded.

  
  

• Add Roadside Assistance Tools: Consider adding jumper cables and a tire inflator. Approximately 30% of motorists could benefit from having these tools for minor repairs during winter emergencies.

• Basic Roadside Kit: https://amzn.to/3L2l0X5

• Roadside Kit with Tools: https://amzn.to/4hwW3PJ

• Travel/Automotive First Aid Kit: https://amzn.to/3WMiczY

  
  

Clean Your Car

A clean vehicle is not only pleasant but also helps prevent corrosion and resale value.

• Wash and Wax: A thorough wash followed by wax protects your paint from winter elements. Your vehicles clear coat paint loves additional care similar to how your skin responds to quality lotion. Contact us today for quotes on yearly detail services.

  
  

• Clean Your Windows: Cleaning windows from the inside can be a pain for those of us with a short reach. Check out these popular tools that take all that pain away.

• Extendable Glass Cleaning Pad: https://amzn.to/3WDgFw7

• Complete Cleaning Kit: https://amzn.to/4oTY6jw

• Our Favorite Glass Cleaner: https://amzn.to/4qEwtMJ

• Simple Rinse: Always rinse the underside and wheel wells of your car, truck, or SUV if you have driven on roads that may have been treated with salt in the winter. Remember to allow your car to fully warm up after rinsing the underside.

• Clean the Interior: A general rule to follow all year long. Remove clutter and vacuum the interior to keep it tidy and comfortable. Large items can prevent proper airflow which could lead to slower defrost times for your vehicles windows. Loose papers or bags can end up blocking floor air vents too.

  
  

Consider Fuel Additives

Fuel additives can enhance your car's performance in winter.

• Use Fuel Stabilizers: If your vehicle sits parked for extended periods, a fuel stabilizer can prevent fuel breakdown. See the link below for one of the top rated fuel stabilizers recently tested on the Project Farm YouTube channel. See video link here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OHXYWxMkhog

  
  

• Keep the Tank Full: Less fuel in your tank means more air in your tank. Keeping your gas tank at least half full helps prevent possible condensation or moisture accumulating in the tank. Moisture in the fuel tank can lead to fuel pump wear or fuel level sending unit failures.

• Highly Rated Fuel Stabilizer: https://amzn.to/4ql9SVx

  
  

Monitor Your Cooling System

Your car’s cooling system is essential for maintaining engine temperature, even during winter.

• Check Coolant Levels: Ensure the coolant is at the proper level and is a mix of antifreeze and water, typically a 50/50 ratio. When we're performing standard repairs here at our shop we aim for a 60/40 split (heavy on coolant) so customers can easily top off at home with distilled water.

  
  

• Inspect for Leaks: Look for leaks in the radiator or hoses, as these can lead to overheating issues.

  
  

Plan for Road Conditions

California winters can bring unpredictable weather changes, so it’s best to stay prepared.

• Stay Informed: Keep track of weather forecasts and road conditions, especially if traveling to mountainous areas where snow or ice can form.

  
  

• Know Your Route: If your trip takes you to regions likely to experience snow, plan accordingly and consider alternative paths that may be safer. Snow chains are required for many mountain roads. We like cable chains purely to save your hands from damage. Search for your tire size in the link below to ensure the easiest fitment.

• Cable Snow Chains: https://amzn.to/3WCfLA9

  
  

Prepare for Winter Travel

Winterizing your car is essential, regardless of the milder winters. By following these tips, you can ensure that your vehicle is ready to handle whatever challenges the season presents. From checking your battery and tires to keeping an emergency kit handy, these preventative measures can help keep you safe and your car running smoothly throughout winter. A little preparation makes a big difference, so you can confidently embrace California’s beautiful winter season!

Click below to schedule an appointment with us today!

Schedule an Appointment Today!

Text us 714-880-7995

Email us service@autuning.com

Call anytime 714-841-1000

Auto Union Tuning specializes in repair and servicing for Audi, VW, Porsche, Tesla, and classic cars of all makes and models.

We are proudly located in the city of Placentia at 1125 Las Brisas Pl Placentia CA 92870 and we serve all of Southern California for bumper to bumper Auto Repair, CARB legal tuning, and classic car mechanical restorations and upgrades.

We welcome all of Orange County to contact us for our expert auto repair services! Doesn't matter if you need diagnosis, regular maintenance services, or just a quick set of tires or brake pads our factory trained staff is here to help you! Our next door neighbors; Yorba Linda, Brea, Anaheim and Anaheim Hills, Tustin, Fullerton, and Orange too!

Photo by Šimom Caban on Unsplash