13 Tips to Prepare your Subaru for the Winter Season

Winter season can be tough on drivers, but with the right preparation, your Subaru is ready to handle it all. Snow, ice, and slippery roads are no match for Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Vehicle Dynamics Control, which provide excellent stability and traction. To get the most out of these features, it’s important to make sure your vehicle is properly maintained and ready for the season.

At Richard Lucas Subaru, our Service Center is here to help you get your Subaru winter-ready with expert care. We are staffed with factory-trained technicians who know your Subaru inside and out. We use genuine Subaru parts and the latest diagnostic tools to ensure your vehicle is in top condition.

1. Start with an Underhood Inspection

A thorough inspection under the hood is the first step in preparing your Subaru for winter. Cold weather can amplify the effects of wear and tear on critical engine components, so identifying potential issues early is essential.

• Drive Belts and Coolant Hoses

Inspect these components for signs of cracking, fraying, or wear. Replace any parts showing damage to avoid sudden failures on a cold morning.

• Battery Health

Batteries endure extra strain during winter, particularly when starting the engine in freezing temperatures. Check the battery casing for cracks or leaks, ensure the terminals are free of corrosion, and verify the battery is securely fastened. If your battery is nearing the end of its lifespan, replace it to avoid unexpected breakdowns.

2. Perform a Coolant Flush

Your cooling system is crucial in winter, not only to regulate your engine’s temperature but also to provide heat to the cabin. Coolant, or antifreeze, prevents freezing and ensures your vehicle operates efficiently in subzero conditions.

• Perform coolant flushes at the intervals specified in your Subaru Warranty and Maintenance Booklet.
• Schedule this service at Richard Lucas Subaru to ensure it’s done correctly and efficiently.

This simple step prevents frozen coolant from damaging your engine and ensures your climate control system keeps you warm on frosty mornings.

3. Maintain Brake Fluid

Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which can lower its boiling point and reduce braking efficiency, especially in emergencies.

• Replace brake fluid every 30 months or 30,000 miles, or as per Subaru’s maintenance schedule.
• Combine this service with routine maintenance, such as an oil change, to ensure your braking system remains reliable.

4. Replace Your Cabin Air Filter

Your Subaru’s cabin air filter prevents dust, allergens, and debris from entering the climate control system.

Benefits of Replacement:

• Ensures efficient airflow and a warm cabin.
• Keeps your vehicle’s ventilation system free of odors.

Replace your cabin air filter every 12 months or 12,000 miles, especially if you frequently drive on dusty or unpaved roads.

5. Check and Replace Wiper Blades

Visibility is critical during winter. Snow, ice, and sleet can obscure your view, making functional wipers essential.

• Inspect wipers for cracks, tears, or stiffened blade material.
• Replace wipers every 6–12 months or at the first sign of streaking.
• Consider winter-specific wiper blades designed to handle snow and ice buildup effectively.

6. Inspect and Prepare Your Tires

Tires are the foundation of your vehicle’s safety and performance, especially on icy or snowy roads.

• Tire Condition: Ensure sufficient tread depth and check for uneven wear or damage.
• Tire Pressure: Cold weather lowers tire pressure. Check and adjust it regularly to match Subaru’s recommendations.
• Winter Tires: Invest in winter tires if you live in an area with heavy snowfall or icy roads. Their superior grip ensures safer handling in extreme conditions.

Richard Lucas Subaru ensures your vehicle gets the ideal tires for peak performance. Our Tire Center provides a range of top brands, including all-season, performance, and winter tires.

7. Stock Up on Emergency Supplies

Winter weather can lead to unexpected delays or breakdowns. Keep an emergency kit in your Subaru to stay prepared.

Must-Have Items:

• Blankets or warm clothing.
• Non-perishable snacks and bottled water.
• Flashlight with extra batteries.
• Jumper cables and a tire repair kit.
• Small shovel and ice scraper.

8. Test Heating and Defrost Systems

Comfort and visibility are paramount in winter. Test your heating and defrost systems to ensure they’re working properly.

Signs of Trouble:

• Weak airflow.
• Insufficient heat output.

If issues arise, schedule a service appointment to address them before temperatures drop further.

9. Check Your Lights

Shorter days and reduced visibility in winter demand well-functioning lights.

Maintenance Tips:

• Replace burned-out bulbs promptly.
• Clean headlights to remove dirt and haze.
• Consider upgrading to high-performance or LED bulbs for better brightness.

10. Wax Your Vehicle for Protection

Winter road salt and grime can damage your Subaru’s paint and lead to rust. A fresh coat of wax before the snow falls provides a protective barrier, preserving your vehicle’s finish.

11. Use a Fuel Additive

Cold temperatures can cause moisture in your fuel lines, leading to freezing and reduced engine performance. Add a winter-specific fuel additive to prevent this and ensure optimal engine function.

12. Keep Your Gas Tank Full

Maintaining a full gas tank reduces moisture buildup in your fuel system and ensures you have enough fuel for unexpected delays or emergencies.

13. Stay Ahead with Scheduled Maintenance

Winter can turn small car problems into big headaches. Cold weather, icy roads, and constant stop-and-go driving can be tough on your Subaru, making regular maintenance more important than ever. Taking care of your vehicle now ensures it stays reliable and safe all season long.

At Richard Lucas Subaru, we make it easy to keep your car in top shape. Our certified technicians handle everything, from checking your battery and heating system to topping off fluids and inspecting your tires. With genuine Subaru parts and expert care, you can trust your car is ready for winter.

Don’t wait for problems to get worse. Schedule your maintenance with Richard Lucas Subaru today and enjoy worry-free driving all winter long!

Winter Car Maintenance Checklist

• Change to winter-grade oil for better engine lubrication.
• Check and replace worn tires or switch to winter tires.
• Test your car battery and replace it if necessary.
• Clean battery terminals and apply protectant spray.
• Lubricate window tracks and weather stripping.
• Install winter wiper blades for better visibility.
• Inspect coolant levels and antifreeze properties.
• Replace cabin air filters to improve airflow and heating efficiency.
• Lubricate locks, latches, and hinges to prevent freezing.
• Check and replace hood lifts if they struggle to stay open.
• Prepare a winter survival kit with emergency essentials.

By following these winterizing tips, you can drive confidently in even the harshest conditions. Prepare now to avoid no-starts, frozen windows, and other common winter mishaps. Stay safe and keep your car running smoothly all season long!