Winter doesn’t slow down Sonoma County. From trips to Tahoe, skiing, or heading North to visit family this holiday season, chances are you’ll be making at least one trek out into the snow. If you’re planning a road trip, your car needs to be just as ready as your snow gear and road trip snacks.

That’s why we created this simple winter road trip checklist from your trusted auto body shop in Santa Rosa. Let’s get started!

🔋 1. Battery: The Cold Crank Killer

Cold weather is a battery’s worst enemy. If it’s getting harder to start your engine, or if your battery is over three years old, get it tested.

A weak battery in summer might still work. In winter? It might leave you stranded.

Quick Tip: Many auto parts stores offer free battery tests. Take advantage of that before you pack the car.

🛞 2. Tires: Grip Matters in the Cold

Tires lose pressure in colder temps, and that affects both fuel economy and traction.

Here’s what to check:

• Tread depth: At least 4/32″ for winter conditions
• Tire pressure: Check when tires are cold
• Sidewall damage: Look for cracks or bulges
• Snow-ready? If you’re heading to icy or snowy regions, snow-rated tires or chains might be required (by law, even).

❄️ 3. Heater & Defrosters: Stay Warm, Stay Safe

No one wants to play the foggy-window guessing game while driving in winter.

• Turn on the heater and make sure it kicks in quick
• Test front and rear defrosters
• Clear out vents of debris or blockages

Even if you only drive short distances, this is worth checking. Your future self will thank you.

🧪 4. Fluids: Top ‘Em Off

Cars need more than gas to run smoothly, especially in cold weather.

Check these essentials:

• Antifreeze: Keeps your engine from freezing (and breaking)
• Oil: Winter-grade oil flows better in cold temperatures
• Brake fluid: Low levels = risky stops
• Windshield washer fluid: Use one that won’t freeze

🚿 5. Wipers: The Forgotten Hero

Wipers aren’t exciting. But they’re incredibly important—especially when you hit that first rainstorm or snowfall.

If they squeak, streak, or skip, it’s time to swap them out. Consider winter-specific blades—they’re built to push snow and ice out of the way.

💡 6. Lights: See and Be Seen

Winter means earlier sunsets and more fog. Make sure all your lights are bright and working.

That includes:

• Headlights (both beams)
• Brake lights
• Turn signals
• Fog lights
• Reverse lights

It’s a simple step, but it goes a long way for safety.

🧰 7. Pack an Emergency Kit (Just in Case)

Even short trips can turn into long waits if something goes wrong. Be ready with:

• Blankets
• Water and snacks
• Flashlight and batteries
• Jumper cables
• Ice scraper
• First aid kit
• Phone charger
• Road flares or reflectors

You hope you’ll never need it—but if you do, you’ll be glad it’s there.

🛑 8. Brakes & Suspension: Stop Confidently

Winter conditions put more pressure on your brakes. If you notice any of these signs, get them checked before heading out:

• Grinding or squealing
• A spongy brake pedal
• Vibration when braking
• The car pulling to one side

Suspension matters too—especially with a packed car and bumpy roads. A worn suspension can reduce handling, which is especially dangerous on slick surfaces.

🚘 9. Dents, Dings & Rust—Don’t Ignore Them This Winter

We know. A little ding doesn’t seem like a big deal. But come winter, it can open the door to much bigger problems.

Here’s why getting those fixed matters:

• Moisture + exposed metal = rust. Once it starts, it spreads fast.
• Paint chips can grow. Cold weather and road salt can cause flaking, bubbling, or peeling.
• Structural damage may be hiding. Especially if the ding came from a previous bump or accident.

Best move? Stop by a trusted auto body shop in Santa Rosa (like Silveira!) to get it taken care of before winter makes things worse.

🧑‍🔧 10. Get a Quick Pre-Trip Inspection

Even if everything seems fine, it’s smart to have a professional take a look. At Silveira Auto Body, we’ll inspect:

• Exterior condition
• Frame alignment
• Suspension issues
• Paint damage
• Hidden signs of wear or past damage

We’ve helped generations of local drivers travel with confidence—and we can help you too.

🆕 Bonus: Winter Car Care Between Trips

Planning more than one trip this winter? Here’s how to keep your car in shape between adventures:

• Rinse off road salt: Especially on the undercarriage to prevent corrosion
• Park in covered spots: Keeps frost (and bird droppings) at bay
• Start your car regularly: Keeps battery and fluids happy
• Keep it fueled: A fuller tank helps prevent fuel line freeze

✅ Still Unsure? That’s What We’re Here For

Prepping for winter travel doesn’t have to be a big production. You don’t need to be a mechanic—you just need a good checklist, a bit of planning, and a team you can call when something looks off.

At Silveira Auto Body, we’ve been helping drivers in Santa Rosa, Windsor, and Healdsburg get winter-road-trip ready for decades. From small dent fixes to full-body inspections, our family-run shop is built on trust, quality, and honest service.

And if you’re dealing with insurance? We handle that too—so you don’t have to.

Let’s Get Your Vehicle Winter-Ready

Call Silveira Auto Body at 707-433-2424, contact us online, or swing by our shop in Healdsburg. We serve Santa Rosa, Windsor, and all of Sonoma County.

Let’s get your ride winter-road-trip ready, so the only thing you have to worry about is driving safe.