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Winter car care for Utah

Snow, salt, cold starts and canyon grades put extra load on brakes and engines.

Road salt and rust

AAA found that de-icers can rust and corrode brake, fuel tank and exhaust components, that 15 percent of drivers in winter regions needed a rust repair in five years, and that the average salt-related repair cost $490. (Source: AAA Automotive Engineering)

AAA recommends washing the vehicle thoroughly before winter, frequently washing the entire vehicle including the undercarriage with a vehicle detergent (not dish soap), and giving the undercarriage one last cleaning in spring. (Source: AAA Automotive Engineering)

Brake fluid

Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time. If your manual does not give an interval, AAA recommends replacing it every two years. (Source: AAA Newsroom)

Oil in the cold

AAA counts extremely cold climates and mostly short trips as severe service, which may call for the shorter interval in your manual. (Source: AAA Automotive)

Regular checks

AAA suggests that engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, washer fluid, power steering fluid, tire pressure and tread depth be checked every month. (Source: AAA Newsroom) A shop can do these checks at any visit. If anything involving brakes, steering or tires looks low, worn or wrong, have a certified (ASE) mechanic inspect the vehicle before winter driving rather than guessing.