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Alaska winters are notorious for their extreme cold, heavy snowfall, and icy roads. Presently, there's rain, snow, and low temperatures all in the forecast for Wasilla in the coming days. To ensure your vehicle remains reliable and safe during these harsh conditions, proper preparation is essential. While many drivers will already have completed vehicle winterization maintenance, it's always a good idea to make sure everything is still in order as winter progresses.

With frigid temperatures and snow on the horizon, now's a good time to double check that you prepared your vehicle for Alaskan winter weather. Here’s a quick guide on what to check to get your vehicle winter-ready for the storms yet to come our way:

1. Check Your Tires

Tires are crucial for maintaining traction on icy and snowy roads. Now's a good time to inspect the tread depth of your tires; it's recommended that this be at least 6/32 of an inch for winter driving. That's because tires do have measurable decreases in performance as they wear (as you may expect). Consumer Reports did a comparison test between all-season tires at full and reduced tread. The findings showed what you might expect: tires with reduced tread took longer to stop and were more susceptible to hydroplaning. Winters will also lose performance as they wear out, so it's best to keep an eye on how much tread is remaining, especially if this is your 3rd or 4th season with them. And don't forget to monitor tire pressure regularly, as it drops with temperature changes.

2. Keep Up on Oil Changes & Other Fluids

We recommend getting an oil change before winter starts, but if you're due now and didn't do it ahead of time, you're not alone and should make sure to get your oil changed so that your engine can continue running at its best. You should also check other automotive fluids, including antifreeze, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid, ensuring they are at appropriate levels and rated for low temperatures. If you visit Wasilla Lube Express, we offer a full-service oil change that includes topping off all fluids, checking all lights, checking tire pressure, washing the windshield, and giving the interior a vacuum.

3. Wiper Blades

Check your wiper blades to see how they've been holding up. Wiper blades typically last between 6-12 months, but some higher-end wiper blades can last longer. The heat from the summer months and  the salt from winter roads can take a toll on wiper blades. If you see streaks, it's time to replace them.

4. Lights

Ensure all lights are functioning and clean for improved visibility. Remember that over time, the plastic lens covering the headlights will undergo oxidation due to exposure to UV rays, environmental pollutants, and moisture. This process leads to the formation of a cloudy or yellowed film on the surface of the lenses, which scatters and absorbs light, resulting in diminished illumination. As a consequence, oxidized headlights not only reduce visibility while driving but can also pose safety risks.

5. Emergency Kit

Prepare an emergency kit with blankets, food, water, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit. We've recommended safety kits before, and that's because it's important to make sure everything you have packed is still good and ready for use should you need it. Check that the flashlight still works (or replace the batteries if you can't remember when they were last changed), make sure there are blankets and any snacks are still good and safe to eat. If you keep water in the vehicle, make sure it is still good (plastic bottles can develop leaks from thawing and unthawing).

6. Fuel System

Keep the fuel tank at least half full to prevent fuel line freeze-up.

Visit Wasilla Lube Express for Assistance with Winter Vehicle Prep

Ensuring your vehicle is ready for the cold temperatures and storms ahead is essential. At Wasilla Lube Express, we offer comprehensive oil changes and operate a repair shop at 200 W Swanson Wasilla, AK that provides a range of automotive services, from engine tune-ups and brake repairs to electrical system services. Our experienced technicians are here to help you keep your vehicle running through Alaska's winter season.

Visit us today, and let us help you gear up for winter weather conditions!