Winterizing your vehicle
When temperatures drop in Utah, your vehicle faces cold starts, slick roads, and hidden wear that summer driving can mask. Winterizing isn’t just a checklist—it’s risk prevention. A little preparation now can save you from roadside breakdowns, costly repairs, and unsafe driving conditions when storms roll through Sandy and the surrounding canyons.
Traction & Tires. Winter roads demand grip. Swapping to winter tires (or a proper snow tire changeover) gives you softer rubber compounds and tread patterns designed for cold pavement and slush. Pair that with a mount & balance and tire rotation & alignment so your car tracks straight and stops shorter. We’ll also verify TPMS so you’re warned if cold snaps drop your tire pressure.
Stopping Power. Cold weather exposes weak braking systems. McNeil’s performs brake inspections, checks pad and rotor life, and advises on brake fluid condition—moisture in fluid lowers boiling points and can lengthen stopping distances. If you’re hearing squeals or grinding, this is the time to address it.
See & Be Seen. Winter driving means longer nights and messy windshields. Our lights & wipers check confirms you’ve got full headlight output, proper aim, clean lenses, and fresh wiper blades that won’t smear or chatter when the snow hits.
Start & Go. Cold cranking strains weak batteries. We run a battery and charging system test to ensure your vehicle starts reliably on frosty mornings. While we’re under the hood, we’ll inspect belts and hoses that get brittle in the cold.
Fluids for the Freeze. We assess engine oil (and recommend synthetic oil for cold flow), coolant/antifreeze protection, washer fluid, and differential/transfer case fluids where applicable. Proper fluid health prevents freeze-ups and helps your engine warm quickly and safely.
Know Before You Go. If your Check Engine Light is on—or you just want winter peace of mind—our ASE-certified technicians perform OBD-II code scans and targeted diagnostics (including misfire, O2/MAF sensor, vacuum/EVAP smoke tests, and fuel system checks). For holiday travel, our pre-trip safety inspection reviews brakes, tires, steering/suspension, lights, and leaks so you can drive with confidence.
Why McNeil’s?
McNeil’s Auto Care has years of experience serving Utah drivers, and that matters when winter is unforgiving. Our ASE-certified technicians follow a structured winterization process—no guesswork, just proven checks and clear recommendations. We believe in upfront pricing, same-day appointments when available, and stand behind our work with a 36-month/36,000-mile parts warranty on new installs.* Need to keep moving? Ask about free loaner cars during service.* From winter tires and alignment to brakes, diagnostics, oil changes, and hybrid/EV service, McNeil’s is a one-stop shop built to handle your full winter prep list in one visit.
Ready to get winter-ready? Book online in minutes or call our Sandy shop today. We’ll get your vehicle inspected, serviced, and safe—so you can focus on where you’re going, not what the weather’s doing.
*If offered at your location.
