Prepare Your Subaru for Winter Driving in Sayre, PA

Whether you are traveling to see family over the holidays or planning a drive to the mountains for skiing, it’s important to make sure that your Subaru is ready for winter driving. Here at Williams Subaru of Sayre our Service Department can help. Read through some of our top tips below and don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment if it’s time for one of the services we recommend. 

Tire Tread Check

Winter vehicle prep focuses on safety and dependability. It’s no secret that snow and slush-covered roadways can be dangerous, even with cautious driving and Subaru’s signature Symmetrical AWD system. That’s why we suggest taking a close look at the condition of the tires at the beginning of winter or before you are planning a longer trip along I-86. If the tires don’t have enough tread, even a small amount of snow could cause you to lose control when changing lanes or stopping. Depending on the type of conditions you plan to travel through this season, winter tires may be appropriate. We have a great selection of options for your budget and your specific Subaru model at our Tire Center, so stop by today for a complimentary tire inspection. 

Battery and Engine Inspections

Having your vehicle die or stall out is never ideal, but it can quickly become dangerous when you are stuck in freezing temperatures waiting for a tow or jump start. To help prevent the situation from occurring, it’s a good idea to have the battery inspected. Cold weather causes the battery to use more power, which often leads to it dying out sooner than you may expect. Our technicians can test the amount of charge left in the battery and also inspect it for any signs of damage. If the battery has recently been replaced but you’ve had issues with it starting the engine, there could be a problem with the alternator. Lastly, you want to make sure that your Forester or Outback has plenty of clean oil to keep the engine running smoothly in Sayre and beyond.

Emergency Kit Additions

Even with planning and caution, you may find yourself with a broken down or stuck vehicle during the winter months. That’s why we also suggest adding a few extra items to your in-vehicle emergency preparation kit. Portable hand warmers and an extra set of gloves or a blanket can make a significant difference when you are waiting for help and don’t have heat from your vehicle. A piece of cardboard and a small snow shovel can be used to help give your vehicle more traction if it's trapped in a small to moderate amount of snow. With shorter daylight hours this time of year you’ll want to make sure you have a working flashlight as well. Jumper cables are essential, so double check that you have a working set ready for yourself or to lend a helping hand.