Here’s How to Protect Your Car From the Harsh Texas Winter Blasts

Get Your Vehicle Winter Ready with Expert Tips from De La Garza  Automotive

For many of us, our vehicles are among our biggest investments. They're our lifelines, getting us to work, family, and everything in between. With Abilene already feeling the bite of this bitterly cold blue northern, the last thing you want is car trouble. Protect yourself and your loved ones by preparing your vehicle for the winter season.

I spoke with Johnny De La Garza, a Ford factory-trained mechanic and owner of De La Garza Automotive in Abilene. Johnny is not only the trusted mechanic for our radio stations but also a longtime family friend. He shared some crucial tips to help vehicle owner's weather these harsh West Texas cold fronts.

Why Warming Up Your Car Matters

One of the most surprising tips Johnny shared was the importance of warming up your car before driving it. According to Johnny, allowing your vehicle to idle for 3 to 5 minutes before hitting the road helps lubricate the engine, transmission, and other critical components. This simple step ensures your vehicle is ready to perform efficiently without unnecessary wear and tear.

“Don’t just crank it up and take off,” Johnny emphasized. “Letting the car warm up is crucial to protecting the engine, transmission, axles, and tires from the stress of cold weather.”

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Prepare Your Car for Winter Weather

Before cold weather hits, make sure your vehicle is serviced. If the freezing temperatures have already arrived, it’s still not too late to visit your mechanic. Here’s Johnny’s top checklist for winterizing your vehicle:

1. Warm Up Your Car: Always idle your car for 3 to 5 minutes before driving to prevent unnecessary strain on its components.
2. Fuel Up Your Vehicle: Keep your car no less than half a tank of gas or more. Diesel vehicles add the fuel treatment for cold weather.
3. Check Antifreeze Levels: Make sure your vehicle’s antifreeze is at the correct level and add cold-weather antifreeze if needed.
4. Check and Service the Battery: The summer took its toll on the battery and it wants a break and before it does break down have it checked and serviced.
5. Check Or Change the Oil: The oil thickens during colder temperatures and needs to be in good shape in order to lubricate your vehicular mode of transportation.
6. Use Winter Windshield Wiper Fluid: Replace regular fluid with a non-freezing formula that can also help thaw ice on your windshield. Plus upgrade your wiper blades to winter wiper blades that are better equipped to remove ice and snow.
7. Monitor Tire Pressure: Cold weather affects tire pressure. Keep your tires properly inflated to maintain traction on slick roads.

Must-Have Emergency Winter Kit

Johnny also stressed the importance of having an emergency "Winter Kit" in your car. A little preparation can make all the difference if you find yourself stranded in the cold. Here’s what Johnny D. recommends:

1. Warm Gloves: Essential for handling repairs or checking under the hood.
2. A Blanket: To keep warm while waiting for assistance.
3. First Aid Kit: Include plenty of Band-Aids, a lighter, or matches.
4. Flashlight and Flares: Or opt for a helmet light to keep your hands free.
5. Toolkit: Ensure it’s well-equipped and includes an ice scraper.
6. Jumper Cables: Don’t let a dead battery leave you stranded.
7. Cell Phone Charger: A lifeline for staying connected and calling for help.

Stay Safe on the Road

Taking the time to prepare your vehicle and keeping these essentials handy can save you a lot of trouble this winter. Johnny’s expert advice serves as a reminder that a little maintenance goes a long way in ensuring your safety and your vehicle’s performance during harsh weather conditions.

Winter is here, Abilene, take care of your car, and it will take care of you!