Is Your Vehicle Ready for Winter?

1. Carry an Emergency Kit

1. Extra water and food
2. Ice scraper
3. Shovel
4. Blanket
5. Flashlight
6. Windshield washer fluid
7. Flares
8. Jumper cables
9. Tool kit
10. Tire chains
11. Tire gauge
12. Tire-change equipment
13. First-aid kit
14. A bag or container of sand, salt or non-clumping kitty litter, to provide traction if you get stuck
15. Candles
16. Extra set of warm clothes

2. Check Your Tire Pressure

Your tires must be properly inflated to ensure you'll have the best traction. The air pressure in your tires will drop as the weather gets colder, so it's important to check your tire pressure. Your owner's manual will tell you what your tire pressure should be.

3. Make Sure You Can See

Wiper blades usually work effectively for about one year, so be sure to replace yours if they are not cleaning as well as they should. It is also important to fill up your reservoir with windshield washer fluid. Make sure that your heater and defroster are working properly , this will help keep the windshield clear.

4. Get an Oil Change

Motor oil tends to thicken as it gets colder, and if it gets too thick it won't lubricate properly. Check your owners manual to see which oil to use in different temperatures and climates.

5. Check Your Battery

Like your engine, your battery can become sluggish in the cold weather. Make sure to do an inspection of your battery. Check the cables, terminals, and fluid. Check the battery cables for cracks and breaks. The terminals should fit snugly. You can check your battery fluid by uncovering the refill hole (sometimes there are more than one). If the level is below the bottom of the cap, refill it with water.