Winter Safety Checklist

Winter weather can be tough on your vehicle, especially in regions like the South Willamette Valley. When Mother Nature strikes in the winter months, it's important to be prepared. A winter safety checklist goes a long way. At Guaranty Chevrolet, we're committed to helping drivers in our community stay safe on the roads all winter long. Follow this winter safety checklist to make sure your car, truck, or SUV is ready to handle the harsh conditions.

Create a Winter Safety Checklist for Your Vehicle

Check Your Tires and Tire Pressure

Cold weather causes the air in your tires to contract, lowering tire pressure. You may notice low tire pressure driving around Lane County. This is best avoided, as you don't want to become stranded with a flat tire. Properly inflated tires are essential for maintaining traction on slick roads around Springfield. Drivers throughout the South Willamette Valley should check their tire pressure regularly during the winter months and add air as needed. It's also a good idea to inspect your tire tread depth and consider switching to winter tires.

Test Your Battery

Don't become stranded en route to Eugene. A failing car battery during the winter months is a nightmare scenario. Vehicle batteries can struggle in colder temperatures. Avoid getting stranded with a dead battery by having it tested at Guaranty Chevrolet before winter weather hits. If your battery is more than a few years old or shows signs of weakness, it may be time for a replacement, and we can install one.

Replace Wiper Blades and Refill Washer Fluid

Good visibility is critical for safe driving in adverse winter weather conditions around Corvallis. Replace your windshield wipers if they're leaving streaks or failing to clear water effectively. Keep your washer fluid reservoir filled with a winter blend that won't freeze in low temperatures. Consider keeping an extra jug in your vehicle so you never run out of washer fluid on the road.

Inspect Belts and Hoses

Cold temperatures can cause belts and hoses to become brittle and crack. It's wise to have your vehicle's belts and hoses inspected before winter sets in. Look for signs of wear like fraying, splitting or excessive softness. Catching and replacing a worn belt or hose early can prevent a breakdown later.

Check Your Antifreeze

Antifreeze protects your engine from extreme cold. Having the correct antifreeze mix is important for winter weather, especially in areas around Lane County that see below-freezing temperatures. Check your owner's manual for the recommended antifreeze for your vehicle.

Assemble a Winter Emergency Kit

Even well-maintained vehicles can experience unexpected problems. Put together a winter emergency kit to keep in your car with essential supplies like jumper cables, flares or reflective triangles, a flashlight with extra batteries, a snow shovel and ice scraper, warm clothing, and blankets. Include snacks and bottled water in case you get stranded far beyond your Corvallis neighborhood for an extended period.

Schedule Winter Service in Junction City, OR

You can drop by our Chevrolet service center in Junction City, OR for winter maintenance. Guaranty Chevrolet is here to help with all your winter vehicle needs. Whether you're due for routine maintenance or need repairs, our experienced service team will make sure your car, truck or SUV is ready for safe winter driving. Schedule service online and get started on your winter safety checklist today.