Product | 12-19-25
Essential winter maintenance for your vehicle
Essential winter maintenance for your vehicle
From icy roads to freezing temperatures, winter brings challenging driving conditions. Winter vehicle preparation is essential for helping to navigate the season safely and confidently. Taking proactive steps for winter vehicle maintenance helps ensure your Buick performs at its best when you need it most, giving you added peace of mind during the harshest months.
Check your battery
Cold weather can be tough on a car battery. Before winter sets in, it’s wise to have your battery tested by a certified technician. Warning signs of a weak battery include slow engine cranking or dimming headlights. Storing a vehicle in freezing temperatures can cause excessive deterioration, so a pre-winter check is a smart move.
Winter tire care
Tire maintenance is a critical part of winter vehicle preparation.
- Tire Pressure: For every 10°F drop in temperature, tire pressure can decrease by about one pound per square inch (PSI). Underinflated tires wear unevenly and reduce fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, and be aware that your Tire Pressure Monitoring System
* (TPMS) may alert you more often in the cold. - Tread and Rotation: Inspect your tires for wear and ensure the tread depth is sufficient for winter conditions. Rotating your tires according to your maintenance schedule helps promote even wear.
- Winter Tires: If you live in a region with frequent snow or ice, consider installing winter tires. They are designed for increased traction on slippery surfaces. It’s best to install them before the first snowfall.
Top off essential fluids
The right fluids are crucial for your Buick’s health in cold weather.
- Coolant/Antifreeze: Ensure your engine has the correct 50/50 mixture of DEX-COOL coolant and water to prevent freezing.
- Motor Oil: Use a winter-grade motor oil, like SAE 0W-20, which flows more easily in the cold for better engine performance on startup. Check with a dealer to find the right winter-grade oil for your engine.
- Washer Fluid: Switch to a winter windshield washer fluid that won’t freeze in sub-zero temperatures.
- Fuel: Keep your fuel tank at least half full to help prevent fuel lines from freezing.
Service brakes and suspension
Have your brakes and suspension inspected by a Buick Certified Service technician. This helps ensure your brakes will be responsive in icy conditions and that suspension components can handle rough winter roads.
Protect your vehicle
Keeping your windshield and exterior protected from the elements will help you drive with confidence and ensure your vehicle looks great for years to come.
- Wipers and Defroster: Check that your wiper blades are in good condition and clear of ice. Test your heating and defrosting systems to ensure they effectively clear your windshield.
- Interior and Exterior: Protect your Buick from salt and slush with accessories like all-weather floor mats and splash guards. Explore genuine Buick Accessories to find the right fit for your vehicle.
- Corrosion Prevention: Apply a protective wax coating before winter and rinse your vehicle’s underbody regularly to help prevent corrosion from road salt.
Pack a winter emergency kit
Prepare for the unexpected by keeping a winter emergency kit in your vehicle. Include items like a first-aid kit, warm blankets, extra gloves and boots, a flashlight, a phone charger, jumper cables, an ice scraper, a small shovel, and non-perishable snacks.
Trust the experts this winter
Proactive maintenance helps make winter driving a safer and less stressful experience. Prepare your car for winter by scheduling an appointment at your local dealership. Buick Certified Service technicians use genuine Buick parts and have the expertise to help get your vehicle ready for the season ahead.
Your elevated experience awaits
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