Winter Prep for Your Truck – A Wisconsin Driver’s Checklist

Winter in Wisconsin is not subtle. From freezing rain along Lake Michigan to heavy lake-effect snow and bitter overnight temperatures, your truck needs to be prepared long before the first major storm rolls in. At Kunes Buick GMC of Oak Creek, we help drivers make sure their vehicles are ready for the season. This checklist walks you through the most important winter prep steps to keep your truck safe, reliable, and performing at its best.Empty Paragraph

Tires determine how well your truck handles snow, ice, and slush. As temperatures drop, rubber stiffens and traction decreases, making tread depth and tire type more important than ever.

Before winter hits, inspect your tread depth. Anything below four-thirty-seconds of an inch may become unsafe on slick Wisconsin roads. If the tread is worn or uneven, replacing your tires before winter storms arrive can save you from dangerous situations.

Winter tires are also worth considering. These tires stay flexible in low temperatures and are designed to push snow and slush away for improved grip. If you spend a lot of time on highways or rural roads, winter tires can significantly improve handling and braking. Even high-quality all-terrain tires rated for severe snow can provide a meaningful upgrade.

At Kunes Buick GMC of Oak Creek, our service team can help you choose the right tires for your GMC Sierra, Canyon, Yukon, or any GMC or Buick SUV.

Cold weather is hard on batteries. Even a battery that seems fine in fall can fail once temperatures dip below freezing. If your truck cranks slowly, the lights dim at idle, or the battery is over three years old, schedule a test before winter.

Corrosion on terminals or loose connections can also weaken starting power. Cleaning and tightening these connections ensures your charging system works as intended. Our technicians can test your battery, inspect your alternator, and install a new GM-approved battery if necessary.

Your truck relies on several fluids that behave differently in cold weather. Coolant, for example, prevents your engine from freezing and overheating. Checking your coolant level and ensuring the mixture is correct for sub-zero temperatures is essential.

Oil also thickens in the cold, which can make cold starts harder on your engine. Switching to a winter-grade or manufacturer-recommended viscosity can improve performance.

Don’t overlook the basics like windshield washer fluid, which needs to be winter-rated so it doesn’t freeze on contact with your windshield.
Additional fluids—such as brake fluid, transmission fluid, and transfer case fluid—should also be inspected. Winter amplifies underlying issues, making early maintenance a smart investment.

Snowy or icy conditions considerably increase stopping distances. If your brake pads, rotors, or lines are worn, winter weather will only make performance worse. A pre-winter inspection ensures your braking system is ready for unpredictable road conditions.

Suspension and steering components matter as well. Worn shocks, struts, tie rods, and ball joints can reduce stability and steering precision. Because Wisconsin roads often develop potholes from freezing and thawing cycles, these parts can wear out more quickly than drivers realize.

Our technicians can check these components, recommend replacements if needed, and help ensure your truck feels secure and predictable in winter driving conditions.

With fewer daylight hours and frequent snowfall, visibility becomes a critical safety factor. If your wipers leave streaks or chatter across the windshield, it’s time to replace them with winter or beam-style blades. These perform better in freezing temperatures and heavy moisture.

Lighting is equally important. Check that your headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals are fully functional. Consider replacing aging bulbs or upgrading to brighter options if you frequently drive at night.

Before winter conditions demand it, test your four-wheel drive system. Make sure it engages smoothly, disengages properly, and produces no unusual noises. If warning lights appear, schedule service immediately.

Transfer case and differential fluids should also be inspected. These components rely on proper lubrication, and old or contaminated fluids can lead to sluggish or unreliable performance in freezing weather.

Road salt is necessary for Wisconsin roads but incredibly tough on your truck’s frame, body, and undercarriage. Routine underbody washes can significantly slow corrosion and prevent long-term damage.

Rust protection treatments and spray-in bedliners offer additional defense, especially for truck owners who haul heavy equipment or frequently drive on salted roads.

Cold mornings highlight the importance of a working heater and defroster. Before temperatures drop, confirm that both systems warm up quickly and that airflow is strong.

All-weather floor mats help protect your interior from salt, slush, and mud. Remote start systems—which are available for many Buick and GMC models—allow your truck to warm up and defrost before you even step outside.

Even the most well-prepared truck can face winter challenges. An emergency kit should include essentials such as an ice scraper, snow brush, small shovel, jumper cables or a jump pack, flashlight, blanket, snacks, water, and a phone charger. Traction aids like sand or cat litter are also useful if you get stuck.

Keeping these items in your truck ensures you're ready for unexpected weather or emergencies on the road.

Preparing your truck for winter can feel overwhelming, but our service team is here to make it simple. From tire inspections and fluid checks to battery testing, brake service, and winter accessories, we can perform a full winter readiness evaluation on your GMC or Buick.

If you're ready to schedule your pre-winter service appointment, contact us today or use our online scheduling tool. We’ll help ensure your truck is prepared for another tough Wisconsin winter—so you can drive with confidence all season long.