Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter

Even though winter arrives like clockwork every year, many drivers overlook seasonal vehicle maintenance until it's too late. Cold weather brings slippery roads, reduced visibility, and increased strain on vital systems.

Here’s a quick checklist to make sure your vehicle is ready before winter weather hits Burien and the surrounding areas.

1. Test Your Heat and Seat Warmers

If your heater hasn’t been used since last winter, don’t assume it’s working properly. You’ll need it not only for comfort but also to defrost your windshield and windows.

Turn the heat to full blast. If the air feels lukewarm or doesn’t get hot quickly, your coolant level may be low or you could have a deeper issue within the cooling system.

Pro Tip: Also test your heated seats if your vehicle is equipped with them. Electrical components can fail without warning after long periods of inactivity.

2. Check the Quality of Your Antifreeze

Antifreeze (coolant) degrades over time and can lose its freeze-resisting properties. Old or mixed coolant can lead to gelling, overheating, or internal engine corrosion.

Routine cooling system maintenance including coolant flushes will ensure your engine stays protected throughout the coldest months.

3. Inspect Tire Tread Depth

Tires with worn tread are hazardous on icy or wet roads. An easy test: insert a quarter upside-down into your tread. If you can see the top of Washington’s head, it’s time for new tires.

If you frequently drive in snowy or mountainous areas, consider investing in winter tires for enhanced traction.

4. Use Freeze-Resistant Windshield Washer Fluid

Standard washer fluid can freeze in the reservoir or on your windshield. Make sure you're using winter-grade fluid rated for subzero temperatures.

For extra visibility, choose one with built-in rain repellent, such as Rain-X, to help water bead off your windshield with each spray.

5. Replace Wiper Blades and Apply Rain Repellent

Your wiper blades should wick water cleanly across the windshield and not smear it. If they streak or skip, replace them immediately.

While you’re at it, applying a coat of rain-repellent glass treatment can dramatically improve visibility during rain, snow, and sleet.

6. Test and Clean Your Vehicle’s Lights

Winter means shorter days and longer nights—so functioning lights are essential.

Check:

• Headlights
• Tail lights
• Brake lights
• Turn signals
• Fog lights (if equipped)

If your headlight lenses appear foggy or yellowed, pick up a headlight restoration kit or bring your vehicle in for professional headlight restoration.

7. Pack an Emergency Winter Kit

If you get stuck in a snowstorm or icy ditch, you’ll be glad you planned ahead. Equip your car with:

• Blankets or sleeping bags
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Non-perishable snacks and water
• Gloves, hat, and thermal socks
• Small shovel and ice scraper
• Jumper cables

These essentials can make a big difference if you're waiting for roadside assistance in freezing weather.

Winter Vehicle Service in Burien

Get ahead of the weather with a winter inspection at ABC Auto Repair in Burien. From coolant flushes to tire checks and heater diagnostics, we’ll make sure your vehicle is winter-ready from bumper to bumper.