Prepping your car for driving in winter in Florida

 Winter in Florida... does it really even exist? OK, ok - we know we do typically get a dose of cold weather at the end of December and January. We never see snow and ice is rare, though, so our winter car prep is far different from places that see heavy winter weather. Toyota of Orlando is here with tips on how to prepare your car for driving in winter in FLORIDA - check it out. 

How to prepare your car for a Florida winter 

Driving in winter in Florida looks a lot different because as noted, we don't see snow or sleet, and even ice on the road is a rarity, especially as you move south down the peninsula. Here's how our car care experts think you should handle winter car prep in the Sunshine State. 

#1: Check your battery. Make sure your car battery is in good shape before winter arrives. Sure, it may not drop too low in terms of temp here, but cold weather can have an effect on your car's battery, especially if it's not in the best shape to begin with. Our techs can inspect the battery physically for any signs of leaks or swelling, as well as test the voltage to ensure it has the charge you need to get up and running every day while driving in winter. 

#2: Make sure your heater and defroster work. NOW is the time to make sure your heater and defroster work... not in January when we get a cold front and it actually goes below 50 degrees in the morning. Check to ensure both are functioning properly and if they're not, visit Toyota of Orlando's auto service center to let our techs get to the bottom of things. 

#3: Check your tires. We may not have to drive in snow or on lots of ice, but it's still important to check your tires. You want them to have the proper amount of tread so you have traction, of course, but you also want to ensure they're inflated to the proper level. Remember, cold weather can actually make your tire PSI drop as the air inside of them cools and gets denser. Make sure they're inflated to the proper level to begin with so you don't have uneven tire wear or damage. 

#4: Inspect your wipers. We won't see snow, but as cold fronts move in we will get our fair share of rain. Make sure your windshield wipers are in good enough shape to keep your windshield clear when driving in winter. After all, the summer heat can dry them out and cause cracking and tearing. You want them to be able to clear your windshield in one sweep without leaving smears or streaks. If yours aren't performing, our Orlando Toyota parts store has plenty of options for you to replace them affordably. 

Get ready for driving in winter with Toyota of Orlando

Have questions about prepping your car for driving in winter? Toyota of Orlando always has answers. Call us today to schedule car care at (407) 298-0001 or schedule online. We're open seven days a week with the longest service hours in Central Florida at 3575 Vineland Road!