Expert advice from ASE Master Technician Rudy Gutierrez at Auto Pros Lancaster
Winter in Lancaster might not mean snow and ice like other parts of the country, but our desert climate presents unique challenges for your vehicle. Cold mornings, temperature swings, and occasional rain can take a toll on your car if you’re not prepared. Here are essential winter car care tips from our team at Auto Pros to keep you safe on Antelope Valley roads.
1. Check Your Battery Before It Fails
Cold weather is the number one killer of car batteries. Even in Lancaster’s mild winters, overnight temperatures can drop into the 30s, putting extra strain on your battery.
What to do: - Have your battery tested for free at Auto Pros - Clean any corrosion from battery terminals - Replace batteries older than 3-4 years before they fail - Keep jumper cables in your trunk just in case
Mr. Rudy’s tip: “Most battery failures happen on the coldest morning of the year—usually when you’re already running late. A quick battery test now can save you from being stranded.”
2. Inspect Your Tires for Safety
Proper tire maintenance is crucial year-round, but winter brings additional concerns with wet roads and occasional ice patches in the high desert.
What to check: - Tire tread depth (use the penny test: insert a penny with Lincoln’s head upside down—if you can see his entire head, it’s time for new tires) - Tire pressure (cold weather causes pressure to drop) - Uneven wear patterns that indicate alignment issues - Cracks or bulges in sidewalls
Recommended: Check tire pressure monthly and before long trips. Properly inflated tires improve fuel economy and handling on wet roads.
3. Test Your Heating System
There’s nothing worse than discovering your heater doesn’t work on the first cold morning of winter—especially when you have kids waiting for the school bus!
Signs of heating problems: - Weak or no heat from vents - Strange smells when heater is on - Unusual noises from under the dashboard - Fogging windows that won’t clear
What it might mean: Heating issues can indicate problems with your thermostat, heater core, or coolant system. These should be diagnosed by a professional to prevent bigger problems down the road.
4. Replace Worn Wiper Blades
Lancaster doesn’t get much rain, but when it does come, you need wipers that work. Dried-out wiper blades are one of the most common—and most dangerous—overlooked maintenance items.
When to replace: - Streaking or skipping across windshield - Squeaking noises - Visible cracks or tears in rubber - Blades are more than 6 months old
Pro tip: Replace your wiper blades before the rainy season starts (typically November-March in the Antelope Valley). Quality blades cost $20-40 and take minutes to install.
5. Check All Fluid Levels
Winter is hard on your vehicle’s fluids. Cold temperatures can thicken oil, and you need proper coolant protection to prevent freezing damage.
Fluids to check: - Engine oil: Consider switching to a winter-weight oil if you haven’t changed it recently - Coolant/antifreeze: Should be a 50/50 mix to protect down to -34°F - Windshield washer fluid: Use winter formula that won’t freeze - Brake fluid: Should be clear, not dark brown - Power steering fluid: Check level and condition
Important: Never mix different types of coolant. If you’re unsure what’s in your system, bring it to Auto Pros for a flush and fill.
6. Test Your Lights
Shorter days mean more driving in the dark. Make sure all your lights are working properly.
Check these lights: - Headlights (low and high beam) - Tail lights - Brake lights - Turn signals - Reverse lights - License plate lights
Safety note: Walk around your vehicle with someone inside operating the lights, or back up to a wall to check brake lights yourself. A burned-out brake light is a safety hazard and can result in a traffic ticket.
7. Inspect Belts and Hoses
Cold weather can cause old belts and hoses to crack and fail. A broken belt can leave you stranded or cause serious engine damage.
Warning signs: - Squealing noises from under the hood - Visible cracks or fraying on belts - Soft, spongy, or bulging hoses - White or green residue around hose connections
Mr. Rudy’s advice: “Belts and hoses are inexpensive to replace but can cause thousands of dollars in damage if they fail. We always inspect them during oil changes and let customers know when they’re getting close to needing replacement.”
8. Prepare an Emergency Kit
Even in Lancaster’s mild climate, it’s smart to be prepared for unexpected breakdowns or delays.
Your winter emergency kit should include: - Jumper cables or portable jump starter - Flashlight with extra batteries - First aid kit - Blanket - Water and non-perishable snacks - Phone charger (car adapter or portable battery) - Basic tools (screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench) - Reflective triangles or flares - Ice scraper (yes, even in Lancaster!)
9. Don’t Ignore Dashboard Warning Lights
Cold weather can trigger warning lights that were borderline during warmer months. Never ignore dashboard warnings.
Common winter warning lights: - Check Engine Light - Battery/charging system light - Tire pressure warning (TPMS) - ABS or brake system warning - Temperature warning
What to do: If a warning light comes on, bring your vehicle to Auto Pros for a free diagnostic scan. We’ll tell you exactly what’s wrong and what it will take to fix it—no surprises, no pressure.
10. Schedule a Pre-Winter Inspection
The best way to avoid winter car problems is to catch them before they happen. A comprehensive pre-winter inspection covers all the systems most affected by cold weather.
What we check at Auto Pros: - Battery and charging system - Cooling system and antifreeze protection - Belts and hoses - Tire condition and pressure - Brake system - Heating and defrost system - All fluid levels and conditions - Lights and electrical systems - Wiper blades
Special offer: Schedule your pre-winter inspection at Auto Pros this month and receive 10% off any recommended services. Call (661) 405-0055 or request an appointment online.
Why Winter Maintenance Matters in Lancaster
You might think, “We don’t really have winter in Lancaster,” but our desert climate creates unique challenges:
- Temperature swings: 30°F mornings and 60°F afternoons stress your vehicle’s systems
- Dry air: Causes rubber components (belts, hoses, wiper blades) to crack faster
- Occasional freezing: High desert areas can see ice, especially on bridges and overpasses
- Winter rain: After months of dry weather, roads become slick with oil buildup when it first rains
Taking care of these maintenance items now will keep your vehicle reliable all winter long and prevent expensive emergency repairs.
Trust Auto Pros for Your Winter Car Care
At Auto Pros, we’ve been keeping Lancaster families safe on the road for over 40 years. ASE Master Technician Rudy Gutierrez and our team provide honest, transparent service with a 12-month/12,000-mile parts warranty and 3-month/3,000-mile labor warranty.
Why choose Auto Pros for winter maintenance: - ASE Master Certified technicians - Free battery testing and diagnostic scans - Transparent pricing—no hidden fees - Family-owned and operated since 1984 - Convenient shuttle service available - Supporting Auto Pros Academy (training the next generation)
Schedule Your Winter Inspection Today
Don’t wait until your car breaks down on a cold morning. Schedule your pre-winter inspection at Auto Pros Lancaster today.
Contact us: - Phone: (661) 405-0055 - Address: 44136 10th St W Suite 205, Lancaster, CA 93534 - Online:Request an appointment
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Auto Pros Automotive Repair is proud to partner with Auto Pros Academy, a nonprofit organization providing free automotive education to Lancaster youth. When you choose Auto Pros, you’re supporting workforce development in our community.