Your January Car Care Checklist: Start 2026 With a Reliable Vehicle

The start of a new year represents a fresh beginning, but for your vehicle, January is often the most grueling month of the year. Between plunging temperatures and the corrosive road salt used across Northeast Ohio, your car is under constant stress. Starting 2026 with a proactive maintenance plan doesn’t just ensure reliability; it protects your investment and keeps your family safe during the unpredictable winter months. Take a look at these essential items for your January car care checklist.

Test Your Battery’s Cranking Power

Cold weather is the ultimate stress test for a car battery. In freezing temperatures, a battery’s capacity can drop by as much as 50%, while the thickened engine oil requires even more power to start. If your battery is more than three years old, it may not have the strength to survive a deep Ohio frost. 

Inspect Tire Pressure and Tread Depth

As the temperature drops, so does your tire pressure, typically about one pound per square inch (PSI) for every 10-degree decrease. Underinflated tires reduce your traction and fuel efficiency. Furthermore, adequate tread depth is the only thing standing between you and a dangerous skid on icy Medina roads.

Verify Your Visibility: Wipers and Fluids

Visibility is your first line of defense in a winter storm. Standard wiper blades can become brittle or torn when scraping against ice, leading to streaks that blind you during night driving. Additionally, using a summer grade washer fluid in January can lead to a frozen reservoir or, worse, a frozen windshield while you are moving. 

Check Vital Engine Fluids and Antifreeze

Your engine’s coolant (antifreeze) does more than prevent overheating; it prevents the water in your engine from freezing and cracking the engine block. In January, it is vital to ensure your antifreeze is at the proper concentration, usually a 50/50 mix, to handle sub-zero temperatures. 

Confirm Heater and Defroster Performance

A functioning heater isn’t just about staying warm; it’s a safety requirement. Your defroster relies on the heating system and the air conditioning compressor to strip moisture from the cabin air, keeping your windows clear. If your car takes a long time to warm up, it could indicate a failing thermostat that will eventually lead to bigger engine issues. 

Set Your Vehicle Up for Success

The best way to handle a winter emergency is to prevent it from ever happening. By following a simple January checklist and partnering with a trusted local shop, you can ensure that 2026 starts on a high note with a vehicle that is as ready for the road as you are.

If you want to ensure your car is truly winter-ready, Mighty Auto Pro is here to help. From battery tests to comprehensive inspections, we’ll make sure your vehicle is prepared for the miles ahead.

Ready for a worry-free winter? Contact us today to schedule an appointment.