5 Tips for Preparing Your Vehicle for Winter in Spokane

Inland Sales & Service • 27 October 2025

Winter in Spokane can be unpredictable, bringing snow and icy roads. These harsh conditions can take a toll on your vehicle and make driving more challenging and dangerous. Preparing your car ahead of time helps ensure you stay safe and warm, even when weather gets nasty. At Inland Sales & Service, we provide expert winter auto maintenance in the greater Spokane area. Here are five tips for getting your vehicle ready for the Spokane winter. 


Get Your Battery Tested
Cold weather puts extra strain on car batteries. Low temperatures can make it much harder for your battery to start the engine. If your battery is more than three years old or if you’ve noticed slow starts lately, have it tested by a professional who can check its charge, inspect the terminals for corrosion, and replace it if necessary. A strong, reliable battery will help you avoid being stranded on a freezing Spokane morning.


Have Your Brakes Inspected
When roads are slick, properly functioning brakes are especially important for maintaining control and avoiding accidents. If your brake pads are worn or your rotors are uneven, your stopping power will be reduced—especially in slippery conditions. Before winter arrives, schedule a professional brake inspection. A technician can check your pads, rotors, and brake fluid to make sure everything is in optimal condition. Addressing brake issues early can make all the difference in stopping safely when the roads get treacherous.


Check Your Heater and Defroster
A working heater isn’t just about comfort—it’s also about safety. Your defroster is critical for keeping your windshield clear of condensation, frost, and ice. Before temperatures drop, test both systems to ensure they’re blowing warm air and working properly. Reliable heating and defrosting make winter driving far more comfortable and help maintain clear visibility.


Replace Worn Wiper Blades
Between snow, ice, and slush, your wiper blades will get a serious workout during a Spokane winter. Old or cracked blades can leave streaks that impair your visibility. Replacing them before winter ensures you’ll have clear sightlines through heavy precipitation. Consider using winter-specific wiper blades designed to perform better in icy conditions.


Use Winter-Grade Wiper Fluid
Standard wiper fluid can freeze in low temperatures, leaving you unable to clear your windshield when you need it most. Switching to winter-grade wiper fluid prevents freezing and helps remove precipitation more reliably. 


Auto Maintenance in Airway Heights, WA

When you need auto maintenance in Airway Heights and the surrounding Spokane area, contact Inland Sales & Service at (509) 202-4025. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment for car care in greater Spokane, WA!