Michigan winters are no joke — with snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and road salt, your vehicle takes on some of the toughest driving conditions of the year. That’s why October is the perfect time to prepare your car for winter. A little preventative maintenance now can save you from unexpected breakdowns, costly repairs, and unsafe driving conditions once the cold weather sets in.

At Stroebel Automotive, we want to make sure you and your family stay safe and comfortable all season long. Here are our top maintenance tips to get your vehicle winter-ready:

1. Test Your Battery

Cold weather puts extra strain on your battery. A weak battery that works fine in the summer might leave you stranded on a freezing morning.

  • Have your battery tested to ensure it’s holding a charge.
  • Replace it if it’s more than 3–5 years old or showing signs of weakness.
  • Check for corrosion on the terminals and have them cleaned if needed.

2. Inspect Your Tires

Your tires are the only thing between your car and icy roads. Proper traction is critical.

  • Make sure your tires have adequate tread depth (at least 4/32” for winter driving).
  • Check for uneven wear, cracks, or damage.
  • Consider switching to winter tires if you drive frequently in snowy or icy conditions.
  • Don’t forget to check your tire pressure regularly — cold air lowers PSI.

3. Top Off Fluids

Fluids are essential for keeping your car running smoothly in the winter.

  • Coolant/antifreeze: Protects your engine from freezing.
  • Washer fluid: Use a winter formula that won’t freeze on your windshield.
  • Oil: Make sure you’re using the right viscosity for cold temperatures.
  • Transmission and brake fluid: Have them inspected to ensure they’re at proper levels.

4. Check Heating and Cooling Systems

A working heater isn’t just about comfort — it’s about safety, too. You need a clear windshield and warm cabin in freezing conditions.

  • Have your heater, defroster, and cooling system inspected.
  • Sometimes a heater core flush is all it takes to restore proper heat flow.
  • Don’t ignore weak airflow or strange smells — they may indicate bigger problems.

5. Protect Your Undercarriage from Road Salt

Michigan roads are notorious for salt use in the winter, which helps melt ice but wreaks havoc on your car.

  • Salt causes rust and corrosion, especially on the undercarriage, brake lines, and exhaust system.
  • Consider an undercarriage inspection or protective treatments to help extend the life of your vehicle.
  • Regularly wash your car throughout the winter, especially after snowstorms, to remove salt buildup.

Final Tip: Schedule a Winter Inspection

The best way to make sure your car is ready is to bring it in for a full winter inspection. At Stroebel Automotive, our ASE-certified technicians check your battery, brakes, fluids, tires, heating system, and undercarriage protection so you can hit the road with confidence.

👉 Schedule your winter maintenance appointment today: stroebelautomotive.com/request-appointment

Stay safe, stay warm, and let Stroebel Automotive help you get through Michigan’s toughest season.