IS YOUR VEHICLE WINTER TUNE UP READY?

Auto Mechanics | Vehicle Faqs | Winter Tune Up

What is a Winter Tune Up?

Preparing for winter? In this post, we’ll cover essential steps for a winter tune-up to ensure your vehicle is ready for cold weather. We’ll discuss key areas to check, including battery health, antifreeze levels, tire condition, and wiper blades, helping you stay safe and comfortable on the road during winter months.

As the weather gets colder, your car may need some extra care. That's because regular maintenance procedures like oil changes and tire rotations are done less frequently during cold winter months when you're not driving as much.

A winter tune up is also necessary because lubricants get thicker in the cold, so it is required to add the right oil viscosity for the outside temperature. All engines require certain engine oil viscosity specifications in order to work properly – for warm and cold weather.

A winter tune up includes checking the battery power level, filling it if necessary, inspecting battery connections, checking your engine coolant and how much fluid should be in your antifreeze container (and top up or flush if necessary), check the fan belt, check how much oil is in your car (and how clean it is), inspect fuel filters and air filters. It also might include checking how you tires are for any leaks or damage, how much tread is on each tire, how well they are inflated and how worn the surface of the tires are and replacing winter tires. Last but not least how your lights are, how well they work and how clean the lenses are.

How is a Winter Tune Up & Regular Tune Up Different?

A winter tune up consists of a series of minor car maintenance tasks that should be done to ensure your vehicle is ready for the upcoming winter season. Some people may question how this differs from a regular or yearly tune up as some of the same tasks are performed on both types of tune ups, but there are differences between them.

A winter tune up for cars, trucks and SUV's can ensure that everything is in working order before the weather changes. A winter tune up is different to a regular tune up in that it mainly focuses on vehicle components which aren't used in the warmer months. It’s also less likely to have your tires swapped for the winter season or an inspection done on your brakes during a regular tune up.

Getting your vehicle winter ready typically takes between 45 minutes and 75 minutes depending on how long it’s been since you last tune up. A full winter tune up will include checking the battery, air filter, belts and hoses, spark plugs, oil change, tires, lights and filters.

Is a Winter Tune Up Necessary?

Getting a tune up every winter is not necessary, but it does provide certain benefits to your car that you wouldn't necessarily be getting during the warmer months.

For example, a regular tune up would include only some of the tasks that are done as part of a winter tune up such as changing out your oil and replacing worn out parts on your vehicle. These two tasks are only a small part of what makes up a winter tune-up.

By having not just the oil changed but also other parts replaced, it is far more likely that you will have less trouble starting your car in the winter time due to how cold the weather gets. Losing battery power is also less likely due to how cold it will be outside which ultimately puts less strain on your engine and other parts of your car that work to keep it running properly.

Other benefits of getting a winter tune up are how it can increase how easily you feel comfortable driving during the winter months rather than having to worry how your car performs. For example, if your battery was to die out on you due to how cold it is outside or how often you are starting your vehicle during the winter months, this could make for an extremely hazardous situation. On the other hand, if everything was working properly with your car and all of its parts were prepared for the cold you feel more confident in your vehicle getting through the season.

Conclusion About Winter Tune Ups

In summary, a winter tune-up is specifically designed to prepare your vehicle for the challenges of colder months, focusing on components that may not be as critical during warmer weather. While it shares some tasks with a regular tune-up—such as oil changes and replacing worn parts—it places greater emphasis on winter-specific needs, like battery checks, tire inspections, and assessing belts and hoses. Although a winter tune-up isn't mandatory, it offers significant benefits, including improved starting reliability and reduced strain on your engine in frigid temperatures. By ensuring all systems are functioning properly, you can drive with greater confidence and comfort throughout the winter season, avoiding potential hazards associated with a cold-weather breakdown.

A winter tune up is a great way to ensure that your vehicle is ready for the season. In addition, it’s one of the easiest ways to extend the life and performance of your car or truck!

The question of how much does a winter tune up cost will vary based on what you need done but typically ranges from $150-$600. This price changes depending on how many replacement parts are required for that particular tune up.

We would be happy to answer any questions you may have or provide an estimate for your specific needs. Or, schedule a winter tune up near you today.