News

 Auto District Indy: Winter Vehicle Safety Checklist

Don’t get stranded in a Hoosier snowstorm. Use this checklist to ensure your vehicle is ready to handle the sub-zero temps and slushy roads of Central Indiana.

1. Under the Hood (The "Heart" of the Car)

  • [ ] Battery Strength: Cold weather can reduce a battery's cranking power by up to 50%. Have a voltage test done if your battery is over 3 years old.

  • [ ] Antifreeze/Coolant: Ensure your mixture is rated for at least -30°F.

  • [ ] Oil Consistency: Consider switching to a thinner "winter weight" synthetic oil if recommended by your manual for better cold-starts.

  • [ ] Belts & Hoses: Cold makes rubber brittle. Check for cracks or fraying that could lead to a snap on I-465.

2. Visibility & Lights (See and Be Seen)

  • [ ] Winter Wiper Blades: Swap standard blades for heavy-duty winter versions that prevent ice build-up.

  • [ ] Fluid Reservoir: Fill up with "De-Icer" fluid (the purple or orange stuff) rather than standard blue wash.

  • [ ] Headlight Clarity: If your lenses are foggy, get them restored. You need every lumen of light during those dark 5:00 PM winter commutes.

3. Traction & Control (Staying on the Road)

  • [ ] Tire Tread Depth: Use the "Penny Test." If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, you need new tires for snow traction.

  • [ ] Tire Pressure: Air pressure drops 1-2 PSI for every 10-degree drop in temperature. Top them off!

  • [ ] Brake Inspection: Ensure your pads have plenty of life left to handle ABS (Anti-lock Braking) engagement on slick surfaces.

4. The "Indy Emergency" Trunk Kit

  • [ ] Heavy-duty ice scraper and snow brush.

  • [ ] Small shovel and a bag of sand or kitty litter (for traction if stuck).

  • [ ] Jumper cables or a portable power pack.

  • [ ] Warm blanket, extra gloves, and a flashlight.

Is your current car failing the test? Don't risk it this winter. Bring your vehicle to Auto District at 9185 W 10th St for a trade-in appraisal, or browse our AWD-equipped SUVs today.

Call/Text: 317-483-4141 317-483-4141

Browse: www.autodistrictindy.com

 The Best Used SUVs for Indianapolis Winters: Stay Safe on the I-465

Published by: Auto District Indy Team

If you’ve lived in Central Indiana for even one season, you know that "unpredictable" is an understatement. One morning, you’re driving through a light flurry in Carmel, and by the afternoon, you’re navigating a full-blown "clipper system" on a slushy I-465.

When the snow starts piling up, and the salt trucks haven't reached the side streets in Avon or Brownsburg yet, having the right vehicle isn't just about comfort—it's about confidence. At Auto District Indy, we’ve helped thousands of Hoosiers find the perfect winter ride.

Here are our top 4 picks for used SUVs that handle Indiana winters like a pro.

1. The AWD Champion: Subaru Forester or Outback

Subaru is legendary for a reason. Their Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is always active, meaning the car is constantly adjusting to the patches of black ice often found near the White River bridges.

  • Why it’s great for Indy: Excellent ground clearance for when your neighborhood hasn't been plowed, and industry-leading safety ratings.

  • Pro Tip: Look for models with "X-Mode" for extra "dig-in" traction in deep snow.

2. The Reliable Commuter: Toyota RAV4 (AWD Models)

The RAV4 is one of the most popular SUVs in Indianapolis because it balances fuel efficiency with winter capability. The AWD system is smart—it stays in Front-Wheel Drive to save gas on dry days but kicks into 4-wheel mode the second it detects a slip.

  • Why it’s great for Indy: It’s dependable. Whether you're commuting to IUPUI or heading up to Fishers, you want a car that starts every time, even when it's -10°F outside.

3. The Family Hauler: Ford Explorer (AWD)

If you need three rows of seats for the kids and their gear, the Ford Explorer is a local favorite. Many used models come equipped with Terrain Management, which includes a specific "Snow" mode that optimizes the engine and transmission to prevent tire spin.

  • Why it’s great for Indy: It’s heavy and planted. That extra weight helps the tires bite through slush on the highway.

4. The "Snow King": Jeep Grand Cherokee (4x4)

When the weather gets truly "Hoosier Hysteria" levels of bad, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is king. With a true 4x4 system, this SUV is designed for more than just a light dusting; it’s built for unplowed backroads and deep drifts.

  • Why it’s great for Indy: It combines rugged capability with a heated interior that makes those freezing January mornings a lot more bearable.

Three "Indy Winter" Features to Look For:

Before you sign the papers on a used SUV, check for these three "life-saver" features:

  1. Remote Start: Essential for defrosting your windows while you stay warm inside with your coffee.

  2. Heated Seats & Steering Wheel: Because Indiana cold hits differently.

  3. Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPMS): Cold snaps cause tire pressure to drop. This feature ensures you aren't driving on under-inflated (and dangerous) tires.

Ready to Upgrade?

Don't wait until the next blizzard hits. Visit Auto District at 9185 W 10th St, Indianapolis to test drive our current AWD and 4x4 inventory.

[View Our Current SUV Inventory] or [Get Pre-Approved Online Today]