Get your Kia ready for cold weather
As winter approaches, it’s crucial to get your Kia ready for cold weather for safety and comfort on the road. From upgrading your tires to assembling a winter survival kit, these tips will help you face winter driving with confidence. Here’s how to prepare your Kia car for winter with Matt Castrucci Kia, your dealership in Dayton, OH.
Upgrade to winter tires for improved traction
Winter driving conditions often include snow, ice, and freezing rain, which can be dangerous without the right tires. Winter tires provide better traction in cold temperatures, as their tread design is optimized for snowy and icy roads. If your Kia still has all-season tires, consider switching to winter tires during the colder months.
Why it matters: Winter tires are made from special rubber compounds that stay flexible in low temperatures, ensuring better grip and shorter stopping distances on slippery surfaces.
Replace worn wiper blades
Clear visibility is key to safe driving, especially in winter conditions where snow and ice can obstruct your view. Old or worn wiper blades can leave streaks or miss parts of the windshield, making it harder to see. Before winter hits, replace your wiper blades and consider upgrading to winter blades designed to resist freezing and clear away snow more effectively.
Tip: Top off your washer fluid with a solution formulated for freezing temperatures to prevent it from turning to ice on your windshield.
Create a winter emergency survival kit
Being prepared for any situation is essential when driving in winter conditions. A winter emergency kit can provide the tools and supplies you need in case of an unexpected breakdown or weather-related delay.
What to include in your winter survival kit:
- A blanket or sleeping bag for warmth
- Extra gloves, hats, and scarves
- Non-perishable snacks and bottled water
- A flashlight and extra batteries
- Jumper cables and a portable battery charger
- A snow shovel and ice scraper
- A first aid kit
- Emergency flares or reflective triangles
For extra preparedness, consider including a survival kit with additional gear like a whistle, multi-tool, and an emergency radio.
Install seat covers for warmth
During winter, your car’s interior can become uncomfortably cold. Installing seat covers can add an extra layer of insulation, keeping your seats warmer and making your drives more pleasant. Look for covers made from materials that trap heat and provide a cozy barrier against the cold.
Bonus: Some seat covers are designed with heating elements that plug into your vehicle’s power outlet, giving you an extra boost of warmth during frigid drives.
Check your car battery health
Cold weather can be tough on your car’s battery. As temperatures drop, the chemical reactions inside the battery slow down, making it harder for your car to start. Before winter sets in, have your battery checked by a professional to ensure it’s still in good working condition. If your battery is more than three years old, you may want to consider replacing it to avoid issues during the colder months.
Fill up important car fluids
Winter driving demands that your car’s fluids are at optimal levels. Make sure to check:
Antifreeze: Ensure your coolant is filled to the correct level and mixed with water at the appropriate ratio for freezing temperatures.
Oil: Cold weather can thicken engine oil, making it harder for your engine to run smoothly. Depending on your Kia model, your service technician may recommend switching to a winter-grade oil.
Brake fluid: Check that your brake fluid is at the proper level for safe stopping power.
Inspect your heater and defroster
Driving with a broken heater or defroster in the winter can be uncomfortable and even dangerous. Test your heater and defroster before the cold weather hits. If they aren’t working, schedule a maintenance appointment to have them fixed before temperatures drop.
