Jun 20, 2024

Winter in Decatur, Alabama, may not bring heavy snow, but the cold temperatures and occasional icy weather can still affect your Nissan. That’s why Nissan winter prep, even in milder climates, is important to keep your Nissan running perfectly, no matter the temperature. Below is everything you need to know about getting your Nissan ready for winter.

Seasonal Maintenance: Nissan Winter Prep

Check the Fluids and Switch to Winter-Grade Oil 

Keep your Nissan’s fluids at the correct levels, especially the coolant, to prevent freezing issues. Top off the windshield washer fluid with a formula designed for lower temperatures to keep your windshield free of frost, and switch to winter-grade oil that flows better in cooler temperatures and helps your engine start more easily on chilly mornings.

Inspect and Test Your Battery   

Cold weather can still affect your car battery, even if Alabama doesn’t have extreme winters. A battery that’s already weak may struggle to start your car on a cold morning. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure they are clean and properly connected. If your battery is more than three years old, ask us to test or replace it to avoid starting issues and breakdowns during the winter.

Check Your Heater and Defroster  

Check that your heater works correctly to warm the cabin on colder days. Your defroster should effectively clear your windshield of frost or condensation so you can see the road ahead. If you notice any issues, ask us for repairs before winter hits.

Check Your Lights

The last thing you need is poor visibility on a dark, cold winter’s night. Inspect all your Nissan’s lights, including the headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals, to ensure the lenses are clean and working correctly. Clean any dirt off the lenses and replace dim bulbs to ensure you can see the road ahead. If you notice any problems with your car’s lights, call us to book an appointment for the necessary repairs.

Inspect Your Tires and Check the Tire Pressure  

While you won’t need a set of winter tires, your all-season tires must always have good tread to keep you safe. In winter, monitor your tire pressure closely as it drops in colder weather. Keep your tires inflated to the correct pressure levels for better handling and fuel efficiency. Measure the tread depth and check the sidewalls for damage. If the tread depth is below 2.32 inches, or you notice cracks, cuts, or bulges on the sidewalls, it’s best to get a new set.

Preparing your car for winter in Decatur involves a few maintenance tasks to ensure it handles the colder temperatures and occasional icy conditions. Don’t wait until the first frost. Get help from the professionals. Call Lynn Layton Nissan in Decatur, AL, today to schedule a winter maintenance check to ensure your Nissan is ready for the Alabama winter.