How to Prepare Your Subaru Before the First Snowstorm Hits
Milwaukee winters arrive fast — one week you’re driving comfortably down I-94, and the next you’re scraping ice at 6am wondering when the roads turned into a skating rink. Subaru owners know their vehicles are built for winter, but proper preparation is the key to safe, confident driving all season long.
This guide covers the core pre-winter steps every Subaru owner should take to make sure their vehicle is ready for whatever Wisconsin weather throws at it.
❄️ 1. Upgrade Your Tires for Real Winter Traction
Subaru winter tires Milwaukee, winter driving Subaru
All-wheel drive is amazing, but traction starts with the tires themselves. Milwaukee’s lake-effect snow and icy mornings demand grip.
What to do now:
- Consider installing winter tires for better traction
- Maintain a tread depth of 6/32″ or more
- Check tire pressure weekly (cold lowers PSI quickly)
Pro Tip: AWD gets you moving — winter tires help you stop. You need both.
🔋 2. Test Your Battery Before Temperatures Drop
Subaru winter maintenance Milwaukee
Nothing derails a morning like a weak battery in freezing temperatures. Milwaukee’s cold puts extra strain on older batteries.
Before winter hits:
- Get a battery load test
- Replace your battery if it’s 3–5 years old
- Clean corrosion on terminals
A strong battery prevents those dreaded “click… click… nothing” moments on sub-zero mornings.
🧊 3. Check & Top Off Your Subaru’s Fluids
Your Subaru works harder during winter, so the right fluids make a major difference.
- Coolant/Antifreeze: Protects your engine in deep freezes
- Oil: Some Subaru engines benefit from specific viscosities in cold weather
- Windshield washer fluid: Use a winter blend to avoid frozen spray nozzles
Make fluid checks part of your early-winter routine.
👀 4. Improve Winter Visibility
Milwaukee roads stay coated in slush and salt for months, making visibility a safety priority.
Winter visibility checklist:
- Install winter wiper blades
- Replace your rear wiper (Outback, Forester, Crosstrek)
- Test front & rear defrosters
Seeing clearly is one of the easiest ways to prevent winter accidents.
🌨️ Get Winter-Ready at Schlossmann Subaru City of Milwaukee
With these essential steps, your Subaru will be ready for the challenges of Wisconsin winter driving.
If you want professional help:
Schedule your Subaru Winter Prep Appointment today and stay ahead of the first big storm.
Stay tuned for Blog #2: Winter Driving & On-the-Road Safety Tips for Subaru Owners in Milwaukee.


