When temperatures in Kansas start to dip toward freezing, your car needs extra care to stay reliable and safe on the road. Preparing early ensures you’re not left stranded on a cold morning in Lawrence. At GenAuto, home to trusted locations like Dale & Ron’s Auto Service and Don’s Auto Center, our technicians know what it takes to get your vehicle winter-ready.

Here’s how you can protect your car before the first freeze hits.



 1. Test and Replace Your Battery

Cold weather is hard on car batteries, especially older ones. A weak battery that starts fine in September may fail when the temperature drops below freezing. Have your battery tested now, and if it’s more than three years old, consider replacing it. A simple check can prevent unexpected no-start situations in the middle of winter.

2. Inspect Tires and Consider Winter Tires

Your tires are your first line of defense on icy Kansas roads. Check tread depth and tire pressure; both are critical for traction in cold weather. If you do a lot of winter driving or travel outside Lawrence, where conditions may be worse, winter tires can provide better grip and safety.

3. Check Antifreeze and Coolant Levels

Coolant keeps your engine from freezing in harsh temperatures. Make sure your antifreeze is at the correct level and mixed properly to protect against Kansas winters. A coolant flush may be recommended if it hasn’t been done in several years.

4. Replace Worn Wiper Blades and Refill Washer Fluid

Visibility is key during snow, sleet, or icy mornings. Replace worn wipers and top off with winter-grade washer fluid to keep your windshield clear. Frozen fluid can crack the reservoir or lines, so winter-specific formulas are a must.

5. Schedule a Complete Vehicle Inspection

A seasonal inspection covers brakes, belts, hoses, and fluids, all things that can fail under winter stress. At Dale & Ron’s Auto Service and Don’s Auto Center, we provide thorough multi-point inspections to make sure your car is ready before the first freeze.

Schedule your care check today at your nearest GenAuto location to stay safe and prepared this winter.



FAQs About Winter Car Care in Kansas

Q1: When should I winterize my vehicle in Kansas?
 It’s best to prepare in early fall, ideally before temperatures drop below 32°F. In Lawrence, that can mean starting in October to be ready for the first freeze.

Q2: Do I really need winter tires in Kansas?
 If you mostly drive in Lawrence and the roads are well-plowed, good all-season tires may be fine. However, if you travel outside the city or in rural areas, winter tires provide added safety on icy or snowy roads.

Q3: How often should I test my battery during winter?
 Have your battery checked at the start of the season and again if you notice slower cranking. Cold weather can reduce battery performance quickly, especially on older batteries.

Q4: What’s included in a winter inspection at GenAuto?
 Our winter inspections cover batteries, brakes, tires, belts, hoses, antifreeze, and wipers. Both Dale & Ron’s Auto Service and Don’s Auto Center ensure your car is fully prepared for Kansas winters.

Don’t wait for the first freeze; protect your vehicle now. Schedule your appointment today and choose your nearest Lawrence location.