Getting your vehicle ready for the winter is easier than you think. Check the coolant and make sure the antifreeze is clean and strong enough for the temperature where you live. IE; -10 or -50 degrees, etc.

Have the heater and air conditioning system looked over by a qualified technician. Most people think that the air conditioner is not used in the winter but when on defrost in the winter will remove excess moisture.

Have your car’s belts, clamps, and hoses checked by a technician. This only takes a few minutes and is usually inexpensive. Change your oil and oil filter every 3,000 miles or four times a year. Replace air and fuel filters as recommended. These are the type of easy and inexpensive services that will prolong the life of the engine.

Get plenty of windshield washer solvent – we have a tendency to use a lot of this in the winter with sloppy road conditions. Nothing is worse than having dirty slush splashed on the windshield and no fluid in the reservoir to clean it. Also a proper mixture of washer fluid aids in removing icy build up on the windshield.

Tires should be rotated every 6000 miles or so leaving the best tires on driving axles. In the front with front wheel drive and in the rear with rear wheel drive for better traction in the snow. Rotating tires gives you the maximum tire life since the front tires tend to wear faster than the rears. This is due to the front tires being subjected to the constant friction of directions turned.
Check the spare tire to make sure it’s inflated properly. Also, make sure you have a jack along with it!

Have your transmission serviced periodically, and prevent big-time repair bills. In fact many manufacturers with 10/100 warranties will insist on this to keep the coverage from becoming void.

If you notice that your brakes are less efficient, get them checked out right away. The life you save may not just be yours but mine as well.

Have your battery checked periodically to see how much life it has left and clean the terminals. Who wants to use jumper cables in the middle of a deep freeze or snow storm. Especially if far away from home. Inspect all lights and bulbs to make sure they’re working. Cheaper than a traffic ticket. Carry a first aid kit, flares, jumper cables, a flashlight, and a cell phone.