Pep Boys Releases 5-Step Winter Car Prep Checklist to Help Drivers Avoid Cold-Weather Breakdowns

From oil changes to battery checks, Pep Boys experts outline the key services drivers should schedule before winter conditions take a toll on their vehicle

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Pep Boys, a leading automotive service provider, is releasing a winter prep checklist to help drivers get ahead of the season instead of reacting to a breakdown. With winter weather on the way, drivers have a narrow window to catch small vehicle issues before cold temperatures turn them into major problems. Engine oil thickens, batteries lose power, and tire pressure drops once temperatures begin to dip, all of which can leave drivers stranded or facing costly repairs.

"Winter can expose vehicle problems that were already there before cold weather hits," said Ken Lichty, ASE Master Technician and Technical Trainer at Pep Boys. "A battery that was borderline in September can fail completely once temperatures drop. The good news is that most of these issues are easy to catch and fix ahead of time, which is exactly why we put this checklist together."

Why Winter Prep Can't Wait

Since cold weather actively strains a vehicle's systems, Pep Boys recommends drivers work through the following five steps before winter fully sets in.

5-Step Winter Car Prep Checklist

1. Get a Pre-Winter Oil Change – Cold temperatures cause engine oil to thicken, making it harder for the engine to circulate oil effectively and leading to sluggish starts and added wear. Using a high quality, multi-viscosity oil before winter temperatures set in can help with those cold morning starts.
2. Have the Battery Checked – A car battery can lose up to 35% of its strength at 32°F, and up to 60% at 0°F. Drivers with a battery older than three years, or showing any signs of wear, should have it tested and consider replacement before cold mornings put it to the test.
3. Switch to Winter Tires – Winter tires use specialized rubber compounds that stay flexible in low temperatures and tread patterns designed to push away snow and slush, improving traction and control. Drivers should also check tire pressure regularly, since cold weather causes it to drop.
4. Schedule a Full Vehicle Inspection – A pre-winter inspection should cover brakes, belts and hoses, heating and cooling systems, fluid levels, exhaust, steering, and suspension. Performing battery, starting, and charging system checks can identify potential problems before they leave you stranded. Catching minor issues now helps prevent them from becoming major repairs once winter weather sets in.
5. Save Roadside Assistance Information – Even a well-prepared vehicle can run into trouble in winter conditions, whether it's a flat tire or getting stuck in snow. Keeping towing and roadside assistance information saved and accessible means help is never far away.

Complete Winter Prep at Pep Boys

Pep Boys offers the full range of services drivers need to work through this checklist in one visit, including oil changes, battery checks, tire installation, and comprehensive vehicle inspections. Technicians can identify and address small issues before they turn into cold-weather breakdowns, helping drivers head into winter with confidence.

To schedule vehicle maintenance, visit PepBoys.com/Appointment or your local Pep Boys service center.

About Pep Boys

Pep Boys is a trusted leader in automotive services, dedicated to keeping drivers on the road with reliable maintenance and repair solutions. With nearly 800 locations across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, our team of skilled professionals, including many ASE-certified technicians, serves millions of customers each year, ranging from everyday drivers to commercial fleets.

Founded in 1921 by Navy veterans Manny, Moe and Jack, Pep Boys is built on a foundation of passion, trust and safety. More than a century later, we continue to honor that legacy by providing expert care, exceptional service and a strong commitment to the communities we serve.

We keep people moving. 

Learn more at www.pepboys.com.

SOURCE The Pep Boys - Manny, Moe and Jack LLC