My Blue Egg...this is our first winter together. She's getting HV attention right now. When I get her back, I'll be driving her more, but I need help making sure she's winter-ready. What are some things I should definitely install/do/assess/plan for winter? Though spring may be around the corner, the temps will hover around 30 for the next few weeks, and I dont think.just driving her 30 mile a day, round trip, is enough.
Use a screen wash with with antifreeze should cover it. Winter tyres will help safety. John (Britprius)
I concur with the winter blend (de-icer if you can find it) washer fluid. Make sure your wiper blades (front & rear) are in good shape, replace if necessary. I have great luck with the Toyota wiper blades from the dealership btw, and they are reasonably priced! Winter tires are a humongous help - I was fortunate to have bought a Prius where the seller gave me their brand new winter tires on steel rims! They are Michelin X-Ice and they transform the Prius into an absolute tank. As a matter of fact, over the weekend we got 14" of snow (yes, all at once) here in Michigan and I had a BLAST disabling the ridiculous traction control and driving around. I was going around cars that were stuck in the middle of the street, with ease. Change the oil to a synthetic, which flows easier in cold temperatures. Check all coolants and top off if necessary. Good time to check the ICE water pump for signs of impending doom (leakage) and your belt. If its going to be cold (under 32f) during your winter stretch, you may consider installing an engine block heater. Some Prius owners use their EBH well into spring time and with temps into the 50's. However, pre-warming the engine block creates a nicer environment to keep your mpg's up in the wintertime, and have cabin heat MUCH faster. I use mine every day its "cold", set on a timer to come on 3-4 hours before I leave every morning. My mileage hit in the winter is only slight. When it gets super cold and I dont drive the Prius much, I also (maybe once every week or two) plug in a 1.5 amp trickle charger and let it charge up the 12v battery. Grille block, if you havent already. Make sure you have a good snow brush/ice scraper and keep it in the back seat, or right inside the front door of your home. Welp, thats all I can think of for now! Btw, we are getting another 5" of snow tonight
