Chicago winters are known to be some of the worst around. Winters in Chicago are like a scene from the movie Groundhog Day: they’re cold, windy and snowy and there’s no end in sight. A lot of preparation goes into preparing for winters like those in Chicago, and that includes winterizing your car. Whether you’re behind the wheel of a large, Toyota Land Cruiser or a smaller, compact Camry, preparing for the harsh winters can save you from being stranded on the side of the road in -10 degree weather.

1) Monitor your Coolant System

Various features of your Toyota become especially prone to damage during harsh conditions and extreme temperatures, and this includes your coolant system. A quick trip to your Chicago used Toyota dealership to have your hoses checked for any cracks and your radiator pressure examined can help ensure your engine’s efficiency. Having your engine’s coolant replaced is also a good idea. Generally, a 50/50 combination of antifreeze and water will protect your coolant system from extreme temperatures without causing any damage to it.

2) Check your Tires

Having your brakes and tires checked is important throughout the year, but add in wet weather and icy roads and this becomes even more important. One good idea is to have your tires rotated to even out the wear and tear. Cooler temperatures can make the air in your tires contract so checking that your tires are properly inflated on a consistent basis is also a good idea. Another tip especially for Wheeling Toyota drivers and other cold weather residents is looking into snow tires. Snow tires are made specifically to endure the harsh winters and shed the snow and ice on the road more quickly.

3) Replace your Windshield Wipers

Replacing your windshield wipers is an easy fix and is crucial to your safety in bad weather. Worn wiper blades can not only obstruct your vision, but also scratch your windshield costing you more money than simply buying a new pair of wiper blades. Wiper blades deteriorate approximately every 6 to 12 months and should be inspected regularly to prevent any serious damage to your car and yourself.

Another good idea is to assemble a roadside emergency kit in the event that you get stranded. Keeping things like a blanket, flares, jumper cables and a first aid kit could go a long way should anything happen to your car. Regular maintenance is also a good idea to keep your car running smoothly in the winter. Taking your car into your used Toyota dealership for regular checkups can mean the difference between inexpensive service charges and costly repairs. A little preparation can go a long way so having your mechanic change your oil, inspect brake and transmissions fluids and check that all your lights are working properly are all simple tasks that can help keep your car running smoothly.