Tips to Prepare Your Volvo Vehicle for Winter

Volvo vehicles, designed with Swedish winters in mind, are particularly well-suited for cold weather, thanks to their robust engineering and thoughtful winter-focused features. However, winterizing any vehicle—even a Volvo—is essential to ensure peak performance, safety, and longevity throughout the colder months. Follow these tips to prepare your Volvo for winter and enjoy a safer, more comfortable driving experience, no matter what the season brings.

1. Tires and Traction

Winter driving demands reliable traction on icy, snowy, or wet roads. One of the best ways to prepare your Volvo for these conditions is to install winter tires. These tires offer a softer rubber compound that stays flexible in low temperatures, enhancing grip and stability even on the iciest roads. Don’t forget to check tire tread depth and maintain correct tire pressure, as colder weather can reduce air pressure, affecting your tires’ performance.

Additionally, many Volvo models come with an intuitive "Winter Mode" feature that adjusts driving dynamics for better control on slippery surfaces. Activating this mode can optimize your vehicle’s handling in challenging winter conditions, adding a layer of safety and control for winter roads.

2. Battery Check

Cold weather can be tough on vehicle batteries, making battery maintenance especially important. Over time, even high-quality batteries lose their ability to hold a charge. Check your battery’s voltage and consider replacing it if it’s nearing the end of its life. Volvo’s advanced battery management systems help the battery withstand the rigours of winter, but a quick test ensures you won’t be caught off guard with a dead battery on a chilly morning.

3. Windshield and Wiper Maintenance

Clear visibility is essential for safe winter driving. Prepare your windshield and wipers by installing winter-specific wiper blades designed to resist ice buildup. Refill the washer reservoir with winter-grade windshield washer fluid that includes antifreeze properties to prevent freezing on contact with a cold windshield.

Also, take a moment to familiarize yourself with your Volvo’s defrost settings, which will help you clear fog and frost quickly and keep the windshield clear as you drive.

4. Heating and Comfort Features

Make sure your Volvo’s heating and defrosting systems are in top condition to keep you comfortable and safe in winter conditions. Test the cabin heating system as well as the rear and front defrosters to ensure they’re working as expected. For models equipped with heated seats and a heated steering wheel, test these as well—they can make your drive significantly more comfortable when temperatures drop.

If your Volvo has Volvo On Call, you can even start the vehicle remotely to warm up the interior before you step inside. This not only makes for a more pleasant drive but can also help keep windows from fogging up as you set off.

5. Visit Your Volvo Dealership for Winter Servicing

To ensure your Volvo is fully winter-ready, consider visiting our dealership for professional winter servicing. Dealership technicians have specialized training in Volvo’s engineering and are familiar with the winter demands specific to these vehicles. During winter servicing, they can inspect and prepare key components such as brakes, batteries, and heating systems.

In addition, service visits offer access to the latest Volvo software updates that may improve your vehicle’s performance in cold weather. Our technicians can also perform diagnostic checks using Volvo-specific tools, identifying any issues early on and providing peace of mind for the winter season ahead.

6. Brakes and Traction Control Systems

In winter, reliable braking and traction are crucial. Have your brakes inspected and ensure the brake fluid is at the right level, as colder weather can impact its performance. Volvo’s sophisticated traction control features, including Hill Descent Control, are designed to offer additional stability on slippery or uneven surfaces. Familiarize yourself with these systems, as they can make a difference in challenging winter driving conditions.

7. Prepare Emergency and Safety Kits

As a brand with a strong commitment to safety, Volvo emphasizes the importance of being prepared for any situation. Stock your Volvo with an emergency kit containing essentials like blankets, food, water, and a first-aid kit. Add a snow brush, ice scraper, and portable shovel for clearing snow off your vehicle and freeing it from snowy spots.

Unique Volvo Features for Winter Readiness

Volvo’s thoughtful design includes a number of features that provide an edge in winter driving. Many models come equipped with all-wheel drive, which improves stability on snow and ice. Advanced driver-assistance systems, like Pilot Assist and City Safety, can also enhance safety when visibility is poor or when navigating winter traffic.

In certain models, heated windshields and mirrors can prevent frost buildup, further improving visibility and convenience on icy mornings. These features make Volvo vehicles particularly reliable in harsh weather, a testament to their Swedish heritage and reputation for winter-readiness.

Conclusion

Winterizing your Volvo can help you take full advantage of its durability, advanced features, and high safety standards. By performing regular winter checks, making use of dealership servicing, and preparing for winter conditions, you can enjoy a smooth, safe, and comfortable driving experience all season long. With the right preparations, your Volvo will be more than ready to handle winter’s toughest challenges—allowing you to drive confidently, no matter the weather.