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wintermaintenancetipsbemidji

Winter Car Care Tips for Bemidji Drivers

1/16/2026 • Ryan
Winter Car Care Tips for Bemidji Drivers

Preparing Your Vehicle for Bemidji Winters


Winter in Bemidji isn't for the faint of heart. Temperatures can plunge to -30°F or colder, and that takes a serious toll on vehicles. Here's how to keep yours running reliably all winter long.


Battery Maintenance


The Most Important Winter Component


Batteries lose cranking power in cold weather. At 0°F, a battery has only about 50% of its normal cranking power.


  • Test your battery before winter hits
  • Clean terminals and check connections
  • Consider a battery tender if the vehicle sits for extended periods
  • Replace batteries over 4 years old preventively

    • Engine Block Heater


    If your vehicle has a block heater, USE IT:

  • Plug in when temps drop below 0°F
  • Use a timer to turn on 2-3 hours before departure
  • Reduces engine wear and fuel consumption
  • Makes cold starts much easier

    • Oil and Fluids


    Winter Considerations:

  • Use the correct oil viscosity (5W-30 is common for cold climates)
  • Check antifreeze/coolant concentration (should be -35°F or lower)
  • Keep washer fluid topped off with winter formula
  • Check brake fluid and power steering fluid levels

    • Tires


    Winter Tire Tips:

  • Consider dedicated snow tires (huge difference in traction)
  • Check tire pressure monthly (cold air causes pressure drops)
  • Ensure adequate tread depth (4/32" minimum for winter)
  • Don't forget the spare tire

    • Emergency Kit


    Keep These in Your Vehicle:

  • Jumper cables or portable jump starter
  • Blanket and extra warm clothing
  • Flashlight with extra batteries
  • Small shovel
  • Ice scraper and snow brush
  • Bag of sand or kitty litter for traction
  • Snacks and water
  • Phone charger
  • Flares or reflective triangles

    • Exterior Care


    Fighting Road Salt:

  • Wash your vehicle regularly during winter
  • Pay attention to the undercarriage
  • Apply wax before winter for paint protection
  • Treat door seals with silicone to prevent freezing shut

    • Wiper Blades and Visibility


  • Install winter wiper blades (resist ice buildup)
  • Keep washer reservoir full with winter fluid
  • Carry extra washer fluid in the trunk
  • Clear all snow and ice before driving (it's the law in MN)

    • Fuel System


  • Keep your tank at least half full (prevents fuel line freeze)
  • Consider fuel additives for diesel vehicles
  • In extreme cold, premium fuel can help with starting

    • Before Long Trips


    Check These Before Heading to Duluth or the Cities:

  • All fluid levels
  • Tire pressure and condition
  • Heater and defroster operation
  • All lights working
  • Weather forecast along your route

    • Vehicle Service at Ryan's Auto Solution


    Need help getting your vehicle winter-ready? We can recommend local Bemidji mechanics we trust. For your next reliable winter vehicle, visit us at 325 Oak Hills Rd SE or call (218) 469-0183.


    *Keeping Bemidji, Park Rapids, and Northern Minnesota drivers safe all winter.*

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