We all know the drill: one day it’s 50 degrees and sunny in Overlea, and the next, we’re dealing with freezing rain and icy windshields. Baltimore winters are unpredictable, and that unpredictability is tough on your vehicle.
Whether you are driving a brand-new 2026 Chevy Traverse or a trusty Silverado that’s seen a few seasons, a little preventative maintenance now can save you from being stranded on the side of I-695 later.
Here are the top 5 things our Service Center recommends you check this month.
1. The “Cold Snap” Battery Check
Cold weather slows down the chemical reaction inside your battery, making it harder to produce enough power to crank the engine. If your battery is more than three years old, it’s living on borrowed time.
- The Jerry’s Tip: Stop by our service lane. We can test your battery’s health in minutes to tell you if it will survive the next deep freeze.
2. Pothole Protection (Tires)
Winter roads in Maryland are notorious for potholes. Your tires are your first line of defense.
- Check the Pressure: Tire pressure drops by about 1 PSI for every 10-degree drop in temperature. Under-inflated tires are dangerous on slick roads and wear out faster.
- Check the Tread: Use the “Quarter Test.” Insert a quarter into your tread with Washington’s head upside down. If you can see all of his head, your tires are bald and need replacing before the next snow.
3. Fluids are Your Lifeline
You know you need oil, but winter demands specific fluid attention:
- Antifreeze/Coolant: This keeps your engine block from freezing solid. It should be clean and filled to the proper level.
- Winter Wiper Fluid: Don’t use the blue summer bug wash! It can freeze in the lines. Make sure you have a winter-rated fluid that won’t turn into a popsicle when you hit the washer button.
4. Visibility is Safety
Shorter days mean more driving in the dark.
- Wipers: If your wipers are streaking or chattering, swap them out. Ice on the windshield tears up old rubber quickly.
- Lights: Walk around your car and check every bulb—headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. Being seen is just as important as seeing.
5. Wash the Salt Away
Salt is great for melting ice on the Beltway, but it is terrible for your car’s metal components. Road salt accelerates rust on your undercarriage and brake lines.
- The Fix: Try to wash your vehicle anytime the temperature creeps above 40 degrees. A quick rinse of the undercarriage can extend the life of your car significantly.
Is Your Chevy Ready for Winter?
If you’d rather stay warm while someone else does the dirty work, bring your vehicle to Jerry’s Chevrolet. Our factory-trained technicians know exactly what to look for to keep your Chevy running safely all winter long.
Schedule Your Winter Inspection Here: https://www.jerryschevrolet.com/schedule-service
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