I used to live in Sunny Arizona, but now I live in Minneapolis Minnesota and winter usually arrives as early as October. I have taken a look at some of the threads on winter tires and things like that. I think I might just end up spending a grand on a beat up 4 wheeled drive truck instead. But I was wondering, aside from getting some winter tires and washing the car often(avoiding salt buildup and rust), are there other things I should prepare for?

thanks!!

 

The 8 does not like the cold... don't break 3500rpm until the engine is warmed up.

Also be prepared for alot of creaks and rattles when it gets really cold. The interior materials in the 8 get really hard when cold. Don't worry though they will disappear once summer rolls around.

Give her a good wax before it gets too cold to do so and a clear bra is a really good idea.

 

Buy a small shovel to keep in your trunk.. you will get plowed in sometimes.

 

As soon as it snows go straight to a parking lot, turn off the dsc, turn the wheel one direction, and put your foot down That sir is fun minus the expense of wearing out your tires.

 

And just hope there are no curbs buried under the snow.

 

Get the beat up truck ................ Best idea you'll have .

 

Not to thread jack, but whats the best way to winterize the 8. Since I have another car to use during the winter Im parking the 8 and leaving from Nov-Mar. Besides buying a car cover and disconnecting the battery is there anything else that needs to be done during the time it will be sitting?

 

Fill the tank with high octane to help preclude condensation.

Stuff the intake with some steel wool and put a sock full of mothballs in the engine compartment near the washer reservoir (cabin air filter intake in particular is a popular nesting spot) to help stave off critters.

Inflate the tires above nominal to help reduce flat spots.

Remove the battery to garage or basement and put a trickle charger like a Battery Tender on it.

Make sure to have some washer anti-freeze in the washer reservoir.

You can also put an opened box of Arm & Hammer bading soda in the interior to absorb odor/moisture.

Clean and wax prior to putting on the cover and remember to run a bungie under the car to assure the cover stays in place during high winds.

Get a high quality Winter-microfiber cover like a Noah or Superweave - don't skimp.

To OP - get a beater. Harsh/cold Minnie winters are just not right for the '8.

 

Thanks Huey will do!

 

https://www.rx8club.com/series-i-tech-garage-22/fall-here-winter-coming-things-remember-about-your-rx-8-a-129198/

 

I also say for the beater...when I winterized my 8 I just parked it on some boards with carpet nailed to them....plugged the exhaust, waxed, full tank of gas and covered....I just started it about every 4 or 5 weeks and had no problem with the battery dying or anything.....