7 Ways To Winterize Your Toyota Prius

Fall is here, and for some winter is pretty much knocking on the door. Before things get too cold out, make sure your Prius is excellent working condition to avoid costly breakdowns.

I cannot think of anything worse than being stranded on the side of the road with no help. I used to think this way back before I was a technician and could fix my own cars. Now, I am worried about all my loved ones and how they would fare.

I wanted to share with you all 7 things you can do to get ready for those wintery days ahead that could be disastrous if not properly prepared for. Some of these things may seem strange, some of them may seem like common sense, but if there is one thing that I have learned, is that you can always learn another trick, tip or hack that could just save your life.

Here are my 7 things you should really do to get your Toyota Prius ready for winter.

Wash and Wax Your Prius
Believe it or not, a good wash and wax will really help your Prius fare those wicked winter storms. Cleaning the paint and sealing it up can help keep dirt and grime from digging deep down into your paint clear coat. I found this kit by Turtle Wax that has a great group of supplies to do that job.

Keeping your Prius clean through the hard winter can be tricky sometimes but if you are like me, and want to get the most out of yours, this is a kit that will last you through the winter. Although unless you live in a place where it is warm, I doubt you will be washing your car in December outside. All the same, this kit is a must have this season, so pick one up and get cleaning.

Interior Floor Mats
I love my floor mats. I bought the Kagu Maxpider 3D for my Prius. I have written about them before many times. They are far superior to the Weathertech and Husky liners people are always raving about, plus they are less money.

These mats are a fantastic addition to your Prius when getting it ready for winter. These mats sit higher and trap more dirt and water (snow included) than the competition. I bought them also because the cover more area. In short, for the price and stellar coverage, you would be insane not to own them. Plus, who wants water and dirt getting ground into the carpet making it stink. Not this guy.

Tire Chains/Cables
I once tried crossing a snowy mountain pass with just me and hope. Hope let me down. You know what doesn't though? Tire cables that grip. I haul them everywhere when it gets cold outside, and anyone who drives in snowy areas, should.

I found a set I really like and they are super easy to install. I do recommend that when you get them, do a dry install first so you know how they work and function. This will make it much easier to put them on, should the time come. I hope you never have to use them, but if you do, just remember they will help get you to a warm bed and out of the cold.

Low Temp Wiper Blades
If there is one thing I could tell every Prius owner, it is to change your wiper blades for these. Winter wipers are different than standard blades.

These will clear better at lower temps due to the rubber not freezing up like regular wipers do. Make darn sure you order 2 of them when you go to put them in your cart. Keep the window clean, clear and under control. This is just something that no Prius owner needs to be worried about.

Winterized Washer Fluid
Wipers are half the battle. They can do a great job at clearing but do not always break the ice away. This concentrate washer fluid is ready for winter. It will keep from freezing at those lower temps. Plus you can make your own for a lot less money.

I keep an extra bottle in my house to use during the summer when I need to spray the bugs off all the time. It is worth the 5 minutes it takes to save a few dollars, and over time, it really adds up. Your Prius will benefit greatly from the savings.

Windshield Snow Cover
I have to park outside, so when it snows, I get covered. I loathe coming out and trying to clean off my windshield in the morning. I searched everywhere for a solution, and found this gem.

This front cover keeps all the snow on it, and off your window. It is easy to install and takes less time to take off and put away. Best part is, you have a completely clear window you did not have to brush off. Total win for me and I highly suggest anyone who lives in a snowy region do the same.

Emergency Roadside Kit
Sometimes we do get stuck and while it sucks, there may not be anything we can do about it. We do not have to suffer though. I keep this emergency bag in my car at all times wherever I am going. It is affordable and has loads of options for when you may get stranded.

The last thing any of us need is to be stuck with no help at all. Just be prepared this holiday season as you think of traveling to see loved ones or just to get away. Your Prius wants you to be happy so make sure you are around to let it serve you as well. If you are in an emergency, this can be the difference between life and death.

Conclusion
I hope you take comfort in knowing that I am doing all I can to help you stay safe, warm, and dry this winter season. Take to heart here what I have put down and seriously consider keeping these things in your car or on your car.

I have been in plenty of emergency situations where I had nothing, the feeling of pure hopelessness was more real than I care to imagine. Do the right thing and take care of your car, be prepared and stay safe. See you in the next story.

I wanted to tell you all be sure to check out my favorite 3rd gen accessory right now which is the Nimbus Phone Mount, found on Amazon.

Check out my other story Why the first generation Prius is better than either generation Nissan Leaf.

See you in the next story where I am discussing why Carista is the best $20 tool for your Toyota Prius.

Also Watch New tech means more MPG from your Toyota Prius and Click to Subscribe to Torque News Youtube Channel for Daily Toyota Prius and Automotive News.

Peter Neilson is an automotive consultant specializing in electric cars and hybrid battery technologies. He is an automotive technology instructor at Columbia Basin College. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Automotive Service Technology from Weber State University. Peter is also an Adjunct Instructor of automotive technology at Columbia Basin College. Peter can be reached on Linkedin and you can tweet him at The_hybrid_guy on Twitter.