Driving in cold weather and winter conditions requires a car that can handle snow, ice, sleet, rain, and very low temperatures. While vehicles are, to some degree, designed to withstand the various seasons, there are several things you can do to get your car ready this year. In addition to getting winter tires and checking that engine components like the fuel lines and fuel pump are working, an upgrade to a JDM engine is another perfect choice. Let's find out more about getting your car ready for the cold temps and shorter days.
General Winter Prep Tips
While transitioning to a JDM engine is certainly a great idea for winterizing your vehicle, there are plenty of other things you can do to be ready, and each of them is worth a mention as well.
Lights
Winter means shorter days, leading to more time on the road when it's dark outside. For that reason, you should ensure that all headlights and taillights are working. If you have a bulb that's gone out, be sure to replace it right away. It's also a good idea to clean the light covers so you can get maximum illumination when you need it. Continue to check bulbs and light covers throughout the winter.
Tires
First, be sure there is adequate tread on your tires. This helps prevent slipping and sliding if the roads are wet and icy. Consider using snow tires during the winter if you live in a place that gets a lot of snowfall. In other places, winter tires are better equipped for cold temperatures and wet roads. No matter what kind of tires you have, be sure they are properly inflated to ensure a precise and safe grip when you drive in wintery weather conditions.
Battery
Your battery is one of the engine components that's very important to keep running. A dead battery can leave you stranded in cold temperatures on unsafe roads while you wait for assistance. If your car starts slow or the engine load seems off, your battery may be failing. Have it tested so that you can replace it before the first snowfall if needed.
Fluid Levels
Checking your fluid levels is important because the right amounts keep all of your engine components working properly. At the same time, you don't want to be caught out in the snow or frigid temperatures topping off those fluids if they get low. Coolant is especially important as it prevents a hot engine and overheating, which is still possible, even during the cold winter months. When you check your fluid levels, take the time to also check the associated filters, including the air filter, oil filter, and any others that your engine contains.
Engine Components
It's also a good idea to check other aspects of the engine by looking under the hood. Have a peek at the fuel lines and fuel pump. If you're not sure what you're looking for, have a professional do a quick diagnostic. Just like your air filter and oil filter, these components are pretty important for ensuring that your engine is running as it should. The fuel pressure gauge, fuse block, and thread starter are other aspects that may need to be inspected before winter arrives.
Visibility
Being able to see when you drive is pretty important. For that reason, now is the ideal time to check your windshield wiper blades to be sure they are in good condition and able to withstand snow, sleet, and cold rain. Ideally, you should replace your wiper blades every six months. At the same time, be sure you have adequate amounts of wiper fluid, which helps keep your windshield clean when dirt, debris, and road salt are present on the roads.
Cleaning
While it's not completely necessary for safety and preparation reasons, if you're taking the time to check your tires, fluids, and engine, you might also take the time to clean and detail your car. Vacuum the seats, and get rid of all of the trash and other items on the seats and in the console. Wipe down the inside, then go through the car wash.
Other Tips Before Hitting the Road
The tips listed above are steps you should take as winter looms. However, there are also some important things you can do each time you get ready to drive anywhere, ensuring your safety, but also that your car is in good working order, and you don't get stranded in the cold, dark winter.
- Make sure you have enough fuel.
- Check the weather so you're prepared for what road conditions you might face.
- You have a fully charged phone and backup charger.
- You tell someone where you're going and when you are expecting to arrive.
- Keep a winter emergency kit in your car, with a blanket, water, food, a flashlight, and a first aid kit.
Why Upgrade to a JDM Engine this Winter?
There are lots of things you can do to get your vehicle ready for the winter weather. All of the above tips are important, but if you want to be prepared, you may consider upgrading to a JDM engine. JDM stands for Japanese domestic market and refers to cars manufactured under the specifications in Japan. Operating a car with a JDM engine is a different experience than a traditional kind of car and many of the specs of the actual engine make it an ideal choice for winter driving. Let's find out more.
Pros of the JDM Engine
There are a variety of reasons why upgrading to a JDM engine is a great idea, especially for winter driving. Matched with the right snow tires and other parts, you'll be ready for anything.
- JDM engines are powerful and precise, which makes for intelligent handling and acceleration in wintery road conditions. And all of that comes with a reduced risk of a hot engine, as they are designed for a higher engine load.
- You get better than average reliability with a JDM engine, which means less risk of getting stranded in a snowstorm or finding that your car won't start on a cold morning.
- Fuel efficiency is a top concern, year-round, however, in the winter you want to be sure you can get where you're going and aren't stuck in the cold and extreme weather. JDM engines offer premier fuel efficiency.
- The actual engine in JDM vehicles is also easy to customize, so you can make it fit your exact winter driving needs, whether that's fast driving with a speed auto swap kit, or ensuring that you get from place to place without being stranded by using the right tires and wiper blades.
Cons of JDM Engines
While there are certainly some great things to expect from a JDM vehicle, there are some drawbacks to keep in mind too.
- Because of the specialized nature of JDM vehicles, finding parts for them can sometimes be a challenge.
- Sometimes, you won't find the maintenance and installation instructions for many JDM upgrades printed in English, which can make it difficult to implement them without appropriate translation services.
Summary
Despite the potential challenges, there's a lot of benefit to considering an upgrade this winter. Your JDM car will handle well in the challenging winter road conditions, and you can consistently rely on it to start every time you need to go somewhere, no matter the weather or temperature outside. So, get those snow tires on the car, and get out there and enjoy everything your JDM engine has to offer this winter.
 At JDM West Coast we offer a range of premium engine and auto parts. If you need a replacement or upgrade come to us for the best in the business.Â