Is Your Car Ready for an Astoria Winter? A Pre-Season Auto Check

Is Your Car Ready for an Astoria Winter? A Pre-Season Auto Check

Winter on the North Oregon Coast is a special time. We trade summer sunshine for dramatic storms, rolling fog, and that classic, beautiful Astoria mist. But while we’re enjoying the cozy season, our cars are facing their toughest test of the year. The combination of relentless moisture, salty sea air, and chilly temperatures can be tough on your vehicle.

Getting a pre-winter auto check now can save you from a stressful breakdown later. This guide will walk you through the key areas to focus on to make sure your car is prepared for an Astoria winter.

1. Battery Check: Don’t Get Left in the Cold

Cold weather is hard on car batteries. It reduces their cranking power just when your engine needs more energy to start. A battery that was fine in the summer might fail on a chilly, damp morning in Warrenton or Seaside.

What to look for:

●     Age: If your battery is more than three years old, it’s wise to have it tested.

●     Corrosion: Check for a white, ashy substance around the terminals, which can be worsened by our coastal air.

●     Slow engine crank: If your engine is slow to turn over, it’s a clear sign your battery is struggling.

Our technicians at PNW Automotive can perform a quick, comprehensive battery test to check its health and ability to hold a charge, giving you peace of mind all season.

2. Wiper Blades and Washer Fluid: Your View of the Road

Clear visibility is non-negotiable when driving on Highway 101 in a downpour. Worn wiper blades will streak and chatter, making it difficult to see.

What to check:

●     Wiper Blades: Look for cracks, tears, or a rubbery residue left on your windshield. If they aren’t clearing water smoothly, it’s time for a replacement.

●     Washer Fluid: Top off your reservoir with a winter-grade fluid that contains antifreeze. Using just water risks a frozen reservoir and leaves a smeary film.

3. Tire Inspection: Grip on Wet and Icy Roads

Your tires are your only connection to the road. Worn tires significantly increase stopping distances on wet pavement, which is a major hazard on Astoria’s hills and bridges.

Focus on two things:

●     Tread Depth: Use the penny test. Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln's head upside down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread is too worn and it’s time for new tires.

●     Tire Pressure: Cold temperatures cause tire pressure to drop. Check your pressure regularly when the tires are cold (before driving) and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended level, found on the sticker inside your driver’s door jamb.

4. Lights and Visibility: See and Be Seen

With shorter days and frequent rain, fog, and overcast conditions, your lights are working overtime.

Take a moment to check:

●     Headlights (high and low beams)

●     Fog lights

●     Brake lights

●     Turn signals

●     Hazard lights

Have a friend walk around the car while you operate the lights, or back up to a reflective surface like a store window to check your brake lights. Clean any hazy or yellowed headlight covers to restore their brightness.

5. Brake System: Your Most Important Safety Feature

Your brakes are your first line of defense in an emergency. Wet roads require a system that can respond instantly and effectively.

Listen for warning signs:

●     A high-pitched squealing or grinding noise when you brake.

●     A soft, spongy feeling in the brake pedal.

●     The car pulling to one side when you apply the brakes.

If you notice any of these, it’s critical to have your brake system inspected. Our ASE Master Technicians can check your pads, rotors, and fluid to ensure your stopping power is ready for winter conditions.

6. Fluid Levels: The Lifeblood of Your Car

Engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid are essential for your car to operate safely and efficiently.

A quick check under the hood should include:

●     Engine Oil: Check the level and color. It should be amber and between the two marks on the dipstick.

●     Coolant/Antifreeze: Ensure the coolant level is in the “full cold” range. This fluid not only prevents freezing but also prevents corrosion inside your engine, which is vital with our humid climate.

●     Brake Fluid: Check the reservoir level. If it’s low, it could indicate worn brake pads.

Let PNW Automotive Give You Winter Confidence

You don’t have to go through this checklist alone. The team at PNW Automotive is here to help. We know the specific challenges that Astoria winters pose to your vehicle, whether you drive an American truck, a Japanese hybrid, or a European sedan.

We offer a comprehensive Pre-Winter Vehicle Inspection that covers all these critical systems and more. Our advanced diagnostics can spot potential problems before they leave you stranded.

Ready for a worry-free winter? Schedule your Pre-Winter Auto Check with us today. Book an appointment online or give us a call at (971) 704-5077. Let our experts at our Astoria shop ensure your car is safe and reliable for the season ahead.