Cable Dahmer Connect

Battery and Charging System

The last thing you want when it's freezing out is to be stuck in a vehicle that won't start. Cold temperatures affect battery power. Car batteries last three to five years. You can check the age of the battery by inspecting the battery date code, if possible. You can bring your vehicle to Cable Dahmer, where one of our certified technicians will test the battery and examine the charging system.

Battery Cables and Terminals

Inspect cable ends and battery terminals to ensure they're free of corrosion, and check if cable connections are tight by wiggling them. Ensure the battery hold-down bracket is secure.

Air Filter

The engine air filter should be clear. Hold it up to a 60-watt bulb. It's still clean enough to work if you can see light through most of it. If the filter blocks most of the light, it's time for a new one.

WINTER DRIVING PREPAREDNESS CHECKLIST FOR TIRES

Without good tires, your car would be at a standstill, or slipping, skidding and sliding when it is moving. To make sure that doesn't happen, check the following:

Snow Tires

Traction is key when driving on wet, snowy, and icy roads, and the best way to achieve that is with snow tires. Installing them on all four wheels provides your vehicle with the grip it needs. All-season tires can work in light to moderate snowy conditions if they have adequate tread depth.

Tire Tread

It's time to replace your tires if they have less than 2/32 inches of tread. Tires with worn-down treads not only have less traction, they're more likely to blow out. Check your treads with a penny: if you can see all of Lincoln's face when placed in the tread, it's time for new tires.

Tire Pressure

Cold temperatures decrease tire pressure by about one PSI for every 10 °F drop in temperature. During fall and winter, routinely check the pressure on all four tires and the spare. Your owner’s manual or a placard (often on the driver’s door jamb) shows recommended tire pressure.

WINTER DRIVING PREPAREDNESS CHECKLIST FOR BELTS, HOSES, AND FILTER

Your vehicle's belts and hoses help power the cooling fan, power steering pump, and more, while the air filter protects your engine from debris. Check the following:

Drive Belts

The undersides of accessory drive belts should be free of cracks or fraying. Serpentine belts should be changed roughly every 60,000 miles, though material wear may not always be visible.

Engine Hoses

Check cooling system hoses for cracks, leaks, or loose clamps. Squeeze hoses to see if they're brittle or feel spongy—either condition means it's time to replace them.

Air Filter

The engine air filter should be clear enough to see light through. If it blocks most of the light, replace it. A clogged filter can reduce engine performance.

WINTER DRIVING PREPAREDNESS CHECKLIST FOR FLUIDS

Your vehicle needs various fluids to keep parts moving smoothly and prevent damage. Check these regularly (see your owner's manual for reservoir locations):

Engine Oil

Cold weather thickens oil, hindering circulation. Some vehicles can use thinner oil in winter; check your manual or consult our service experts. Replace dark, dirty oil.

Gas Tank

Keep your gas tank over half full to ensure you can run the heater if stranded and account for travel delays in snowy or slushy conditions.

Brake, Transmission & Power Steering Fluids

Keep these topped up to maintain system performance. Brake fluid that’s dark or dirty should be replaced. Fluids should be at or above minimum safe levels.

Coolant Levels

Check coolant (antifreeze) when the engine is cold. Add a 50/50 mixture of coolant and water if low, and test antifreeze protection yearly with an inexpensive tester.

Windshield Washer Fluid

Keep fluid topped up and use an antifreeze-infused solution to prevent freezing. A clear windshield is crucial when slush or road spray hits your view.

WINTER DRIVING PREPAREDNESS CHECKLIST FOR LIGHTS, BRAKES, AND MORE

Ensure you can see clearly, stop safely, and stay warm this season:

Lights

Turn on all lights—headlights, backup lights, brake lights, taillights, turn signals, emergency flashers—to ensure they're working. Replace burned-out bulbs immediately.

Brakes

Properly functioning brakes are critical for safety. Have a certified technician inspect them if you notice any issues stopping.

Wiper Blades

Blades should clear the windshield fully. Streaking or skipping means it's time to replace them. Consider winter wiper blades with a rubber layer to prevent ice buildup.

Heater & Defroster

A working heater and defroster keep you warm and ensure windows stay clear. Air conditioning also aids defrosting, so it should function properly. Use fresh air settings to reduce fogging.

Emergency Winter Car Kit Checklist

Hopefully you'll never need it, but you’ll be glad to have this kit if you do. Keep these items in your car:

• Cellphone with important numbers (family, roadside assistance)
• Notepad and pens
• Car charger
• Water bottles
• Non-perishable snacks (for people and pets)
• First-aid kit
• Blankets
• Ice scraper and brush
• Snow shovel
• Lock de-icer

• Bag of salt, sand, or cat litter
• Traction mats
• Hats, gloves, and scarves
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Cloth or paper towels
• Window washing fluid
• Jumper cables
• Flares or warning triangles
• Basic toolkit (pliers, screwdrivers, adjustable wrench)

Benefits of a Winter Car Check

By taking time to complete this checklist, you could save yourself towing costs or expensive repairs later. If you’re busy or overwhelmed, Cable Dahmer can handle your winter prep. Our experts will ensure your vehicle is winter-ready, so you can drive with confidence. Book your service appointment today.