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Filters and Fluids: How to Check Your Car’s Fluids and Filters for Winter

Filters and Fluids: How to Check Your Car’s Fluids and Filters for Winter

As winter approaches, ensuring your car’s fluids and filters are in optimal condition is essential for keeping your vehicle running smoothly through cold weather. Cold temperatures can affect the performance of your car’s fluids, and clogged or dirty filters can reduce engine efficiency, lower fuel economy, and potentially lead to costly repairs. Performing routine checks on your fluids and filters before winter sets in can help you avoid breakdowns and ensure your car is ready for winter driving conditions. Here’s a guide on how to check your car’s fluids and filters for winter.

1. Checking and Replacing Engine Oil

Engine oil is crucial for keeping your car’s engine running smoothly by reducing friction between moving parts. Cold weather can cause engine oil to thicken, making it harder for the engine to turn over and operate efficiently. To prevent engine strain and ensure proper lubrication, it’s essential to use the right type of oil for winter conditions.

What to do: Before winter, check your engine oil level using the dipstick. If it’s low, top it off with the correct type of oil for your vehicle. If your car has been running on oil for a long time (usually 5,000–7,500 miles), it’s a good idea to schedule an oil change before winter arrives. Consider using winter-grade oil, as it’s designed to flow more easily in cold temperatures, providing better protection during startup.

2. Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid helps your car shift smoothly and lubricates the transmission to prevent damage. Cold temperatures can thicken transmission fluid, potentially causing the transmission to shift erratically or even malfunction. Regular checks of the transmission fluid will help prevent this from happening.

What to do: Check your vehicle’s transmission fluid level according to the manufacturer’s instructions (some vehicles require the engine to be running, while others may need it off). If the fluid is low, top it off with the recommended type of fluid. If the fluid appears dirty or has a burnt smell, consider having it flushed and replaced.

3. Coolant and Antifreeze

Coolant (also known as antifreeze) plays a critical role in regulating the engine temperature, preventing the engine from overheating in the summer and freezing in the winter. Before the temperature drops, you should check the coolant level and ensure it’s in good condition.

What to do: Check the coolant level in the reservoir (while the engine is cool). If the level is low, top it off with the correct mixture of antifreeze and water, typically in a 50/50 ratio. It’s also a good idea to have your coolant flushed every 30,000–50,000 miles to remove debris and contaminants that could prevent it from flowing properly.

4. Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is essential for the smooth operation of your vehicle’s braking system. If the brake fluid is low, it can cause decreased braking power, which is especially dangerous during winter driving. Cold temperatures can also affect the performance of old, degraded brake fluid.

What to do: Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir and ensure it is within the recommended range. If the fluid is low, top it off with the correct type of fluid. If the fluid looks dirty or if you’ve noticed issues with braking performance, have it replaced or flushed as soon as possible. This will help ensure your brakes work efficiently, even in cold weather.

5. Power Steering Fluid

Power steering fluid ensures that your car’s steering system works smoothly, allowing you to turn the steering wheel with ease. Cold temperatures can cause the fluid to thicken, which may make steering harder or less responsive.

What to do: Check the power steering fluid level and top it off if necessary. If you notice whining noises or difficulty steering, it could indicate low power steering fluid, and it’s time to check for leaks or have the system serviced. Replacing old, thick fluid can improve steering performance in the winter months.

6. Windshield Wiper Fluid

Visibility is crucial when driving in winter, especially with snow, ice, and slush on the roads. Windshield wiper fluid helps clear your windshield for optimal visibility. However, the standard windshield wiper fluid may freeze in very cold temperatures, reducing its effectiveness.

What to do: Check the windshield wiper fluid level and ensure it’s filled with a winter-ready solution. Winter wiper fluid is designed to withstand freezing temperatures and will work better to clean your windshield when it’s cold outside. Also, replace your wiper blades if they are cracked or worn to ensure they work properly in wet or snowy conditions.

7. Air Filters

The air filter plays a crucial role in ensuring clean airflow to the engine, promoting optimal combustion and better engine performance. In winter, dirt and debris can accumulate in the filter more quickly, which can reduce engine efficiency and fuel economy.

What to do: Check the air filter for signs of dirt, debris, or clogging. If it appears dirty or clogged, replace it. A clean air filter ensures that the engine receives clean air, which is especially important when the weather gets colder and the engine is working harder to perform efficiently.

8. Cabin Air Filter

The cabin air filter is responsible for keeping the air inside your vehicle clean and free from pollutants. In winter, you’re more likely to use your car’s heater, which can circulate dust, pollen, and other particles inside. A dirty cabin air filter can lead to unpleasant odors or reduced air quality.

What to do: Inspect and replace the cabin air filter if necessary. A clean cabin air filter ensures that the air inside your car stays fresh, preventing allergens and pollutants from circulating while you use the heater during cold weather.

9. Fuel System

In cold temperatures, the fuel system can be strained due to the thicker fuel and potential moisture buildup. Water in the fuel tank can freeze, blocking the fuel lines and leading to engine problems.

What to do: To prevent moisture from freezing in the fuel system, consider adding a fuel system cleaner or fuel injector cleaner to your tank before the winter season. Regular fuel system maintenance can improve performance and help prevent fuel line blockages.

Stay Ahead of Winter Challenges with Regular Fluid and Filter Checks

Maintaining your vehicle’s fluids and filters is essential for safe and reliable performance during the winter months. By checking and replacing the fluids and filters that play a critical role in your car’s operation—such as coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and air filters—you can prevent breakdowns, improve performance, and ensure comfort during cold weather driving. Regular maintenance of these components will help your car handle whatever winter throws its way, keeping you safe on the road and extending the life of your vehicle. Be proactive in keeping your car’s fluids and filters in top condition, and you’ll be ready for winter driving season.

Photo by Ilya Burdun from Getty Images via Canva Pro