We’ve covered the regular winter checks that every car owner should perform at this time of year. However, your supercar needs some extra care and attention during the harshest months. Whether you’re still out and about or preparing for winter storage, we’ve got advice for you.
Our guide covers getting your car ready for winter and maintaining your luxury vehicle. We’ve also got some safety tips to keep all four wheels firmly on the tarmac to share as well. We’ll even look ahead to better weather and provide advice on how to get your supercar prepped to hit the road in the springtime.
Ensuring Optimal Performance
One of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent damage to your supercar in winter is to put it in storage. If you have a weatherproof garage, it’s a good option. If you can heat it to maintain a consistent temperature, that’s even better. It’ll save you the wear and tear and repair costs in the long run.
The consistent temperature helps reduce moisture, but if you need to take another route, a dehumidifier can help with that. Keeping moisture out of the air protects against rust and prevents damage to electrical components. All of these actions ensure your supercar will perform just as you expect it to when spring comes around.
Essential Checks
If you’re planning to continue driving your supercar occasionally or regularly throughout winter, you can prepare for the different conditions. Even if you’re putting it in storage, there are some essential checks that you’ll need to carry out as winter arrives.
Technology is an asset at this time, as you can use performance apps to understand how well your supercar is running. There are also several parts that need checks and maintenance, and again, technology can help. Smart sensors for tyre pressure and regular fluid sensors will help you spot areas that need attention.
Here are the key areas and parts to check to ensure safety and optimal performance in the colder months and beyond.
Wipers
If your supercar is going into storage, now’s the time to wrap your wipers to protect them and your windscreen. If you’re driving in cold conditions, it’s still a good idea to place a cloth between them and the windshield to stop them from freezing to the screen.
Before you head out anywhere, coat the screen and wipers with de-icer to clear frost and ice before using the wipers. Through the winter, regularly clean them to get rid of debris. Before the first cold days hit, inspect them and replace them if worn or damaged. For example, you can easily pick up this Lamborghini Urus wiper blade.
Fluid Levels
Talking of windscreens, you’ll want to keep your washer fluid topped up. Make sure you use one suitable for winter that will withstand cold temperatures. When performing your maintenance checks, it’s also the time to check your other fluids. Fill up with anti-freeze and winter-grade oil. If you’re storing your supercar, a full fuel tank prevents moisture from building up inside and causing damage.
Brakes
Driving in icy conditions means your brakes will need to be responsive and provide peak performance. It’s worth arranging for a check for signs of wear, as safety is paramount. If you need to replace your Aston Martin DB7 front brake pads or get new, original brake discs for your Bentley Continental Flying Spur, get it done before your first winter drive.
Tyres
Ensuring optimal performance also comes down to your supercar’s tyres. Maintaining tyre pressure on your Ferrari 812 Competizione is easier with a tyre pressure monitoring system wheel sensor. For those expecting snow, ice and cold temperatures, winter tyres are a must. However, if you have a mild winter, all-season tyres can do the job.
Filters
Engine parts depend on oil flow, which means your pre-winter check is the time to replace your supercars oil filter. Your comfort and the efficiency of your supercar depend on proper airflow, too. Checking and replacing the air filter and cabin filter as necessary means build up from dirt, snow, grit and salt won’t cause you issues.
Battery
For a supercar that’s kept in storage, we recommend starting the engine fairly regularly. When you combine that with the use of a trickle charger, you prevent your battery from going flat. These regular checks will have you raring to go in spring. If you’re making the most of the four-wheel drive on your Ferrari FF during the winter months, make sure it’s passing electricity to your battery effectively by checking the alternator belt as autumn ends.
Engine
Regularly starting your stored supercar also does the engine some good, as it stops fluids from settling and keeps parts moving. Before you put your pride and joy away for the winter or if you plan to keep driving, arrange some maintenance checks. The drive belt and spark plugs should be high on the list. One is responsible for many moving parts, while a fault with the latter can cause an even more expensive catalytic converter issue.
Supercar Protection
Winter brings dangerous driving conditions, but it also involves multiple elements that can damage your car. Snow and ice cause problems as they expand and contract and trap dirt. The cold and moisture that’s typical of the season are also a threat to your supercar and its performance. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to take care of your car.
Keep it Safe
The number one way to keep your car safe in winter is to stick to the maintenance schedule and look after your supercar all year round. As we mentioned before, proper storage over the winter months is key. Even if you’re out on the road, putting it away overnight and during particularly bad weather is advisable.
Interior Changes
Melting snow, dirt, salt and grit can also get inside your car. These materials and the weather conditions can dry out and crack your upholstery. Using a Ferrari cream leather conditioner is a good way to protect the interior. Waterproof mats can handle what comes off your shoes, so cleaning is easier.
Preserve the Paintwork
If you’ve taken your supercar out on the winter roads, regular cleaning is essential. Salt and grit can damage your exterior. They’re corrosive, so removing them as soon as possible is best. To add extra protection, a sealant or wax can help preserve the paintwork and prevent rust.
Driving in Winter
Even winter offers the opportunity for a scenic drive, but a safe approach is essential. Supercar experts Pirelli recommend a soft foot on the accelerator to build up speed gradually in icy conditions. Plus, the worse the conditions are, the bigger the braking distance you should leave between you and the next vehicle.
Visibility is crucial, so the wiper care tips above are a must for ensuring your screen is clear of snow. Finally, if you can find a quiet stretch of road, it’s a good idea to test your brakes to understand the grip on the road.
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