Winter driving can be tough on your vehicle if it’s not properly prepared. Here at Hemlock Auto & Alignment, we understand Michigan winters—snow, ice, and below-freezing temperatures make winter car maintenance essential. To keep you safe and help you avoid costly repairs, here’s our guide to getting your car winter-ready, from essential checks to a comprehensive pre-trip inspection.
Why Winter Car Maintenance Is Important
Michigan’s cold season doesn’t just affect your comfort; it can also be rough on your vehicle’s battery, fluids, brakes, and tires. Scheduling winter car maintenance with our experienced technicians can help you avoid breakdowns, improve safety, and save on repairs. Our family-owned shop is here to keep you confident on the road, with expert advice from ASE-certified technicians.
Winter Car Maintenance: Key Areas to Check
1. Battery Health
Cold temperatures reduce a battery’s ability to hold a charge, which is why batteries often fail in winter. No one wants to be stranded with a dead battery on a cold morning, so checking it early is essential.
- Pro Tip: If your car is slow to start or the battery is over three years old, it’s a good idea to have it tested. We can check your battery during your pre-trip inspection and recommend a replacement if needed.
2. Brakes: Winter Brake Pad Replacement
Reliable brakes are critical in winter. With icy, snowy roads, worn brakes can increase stopping distance, which may be dangerous.
- Pro Tip: If you hear squealing or feel vibrations when braking, your brake pads may be worn. Replacing brake pads before winter can improve handling on slippery roads. Brake inspections are part of our winter car maintenance checklist to keep your vehicle road-ready.
3. Winter Tires: Essential for Michigan Winters
Winter tires offer deeper tread and rubber that stays flexible in the cold, giving better grip on ice and snow. This improves winter driving performance significantly, especially in Michigan.
- Pro Tip: Check tire tread depth by inserting a quarter. If you can see above Washington’s head, it’s time for new tires. Our team can help you select the best winter tires as part of our winter car maintenance services.
Tire Pressure in Cold Weather
Cold temperatures can reduce tire pressure, affecting handling and fuel efficiency. Keeping tire pressure in check is essential for safe cold weather driving.
- Pro Tip: Tire pressure should be checked every few weeks in winter. Our pre-trip inspection includes tire pressure checks to keep your tires properly inflated.
4. Fluids: Oil, Coolant, and More
Winter weather thickens your car’s fluids, which can strain the engine. Make sure your fluids are topped off and prepared for cold temperatures.
- Oil for Winter: Cold weather thickens oil, putting stress on the engine. Check your owner’s manual for winter-grade oil or ask our technicians for advice.
- Coolant and Antifreeze: Ensure coolant levels are sufficient and antifreeze concentration is suitable for Michigan’s winter. We include coolant checks as part of our winter car maintenance services to help prevent freezing.
Windshield Washer Fluid and Wipers
Good visibility is essential in winter driving. Using winter-specific windshield washer fluid prevents freezing, and durable wipers handle snow and ice better.
- Pro Tip: Swap out regular wiper blades for winter ones. We stock winter washer fluid and wiper blades to help you handle Michigan’s winter conditions with clear visibility.
Winter Car Maintenance and Pre-Trip Inspections at Hemlock Auto & Alignment
A winter pre-trip inspection can provide peace of mind. At Hemlock Auto & Alignment in Hemlock, MI, our ASE-certified technicians conduct a thorough vehicle check to ensure it’s ready for winter. With our complimentary digital assessment with any service, you’ll get a detailed report of your car’s condition and any recommended services.
What to Expect in a Pre-Trip Inspection
During a winter car maintenance inspection, we’ll examine:
- Battery Health – Ensuring your battery is charged and ready for winter.
- Brakes and Pads – Checking for signs of wear and recommending brake pad replacement if necessary.
- Tires – Inspecting tread depth, tire condition, and pressure.
- Fluids – Ensuring oil, coolant, and washer fluids are topped off.
- Lights and Wipers – Testing visibility equipment for safe cold weather driving.
Our winter car maintenance services are backed by a 36-month/36,000-mile nationwide warranty. When you visit us, you’re in capable hands, backed by a team committed to honesty and quality service.
Trust Hemlock Auto & Alignment with Your Winter Car Maintenance
With proper winter car maintenance, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly and avoid unexpected breakdowns. Whether it’s a brake pad replacement or a thorough pre-trip inspection, Hemlock Auto & Alignment is here to help you face Michigan’s winter conditions confidently.
Call us today to schedule your winter car maintenance and make sure your car is ready for Michigan’s toughest winter conditions! Reach us at 989-642-4423 or visit us at 16575 Gratiot Road, Hemlock, MI 48626. For more details on our services, visit our website.
