Getting your car ready for a New York winter

The fall checklist

• Battery: get it tested before it gets cold. Cold weather reduces how much power a battery can deliver, so a weak one often fails on the first freezing morning.
• Tires: check the tread, and check pressures monthly with the tires cold. Pressure drops as temperatures fall, so the tire pressure light often comes on with the first cold snap.
• Wipers: replace blades that streak or skip.
• Washer fluid: fill up with a winter fluid rated for freezing temperatures, not water.
• Coolant: make sure the level is right and the mix protects against freezing.
• Heater and defroster: make sure both work, so you can keep the windshield clear.
• Lights: check headlights, brake lights and turn signals; winter days are short.

Road salt and rust

The salt used on NYC streets speeds up rust on brake lines, exhaust parts and the underside of the car. Rinse the car, including underneath, every so often during the winter, especially after a storm.

A small emergency kit

• Ice scraper and snow brush.
• Phone charger or a charged power bank.
• Flashlight.
• Warm gloves and a blanket.
• Jumper cables.
• Water and a snack.

Warming up the car: keep it short

Modern engines don’t need a long warm-up; driving gently for the first few minutes warms them faster. In New York City, the law limits idling to three minutes in most situations, so a long idle in the morning can also get you a ticket.

Before you drive in snow

• Clear snow from the whole car, including the roof, hood, lights and mirrors, not just a small hole in the windshield.
• Make sure the tailpipe isn’t blocked by snow before running the engine; exhaust can build up inside the car.
• Leave more distance and brake earlier. If your car has ABS, press firmly and steady rather than pumping.

How we handle it here

• We test the battery and charging system, and check tires, wipers, coolant, heater and lights.
• We tell you what needs attention before winter and what can wait, and give you the price before any work starts.
• Nothing is done without your approval.
• We are open 24/7 through the winter, and we speak English and Spanish.