It’s time to prepare your vehicle for the upcoming colder temperatures. Getting ready ahead of time is much better than waiting until after the first cold snap.

Look over the following list and pay attention to the items that pertain to your vehicle. Most people check their antifreeze and say their vehicle is “winterized”. While it is one of the most important items on the list, there are many other things to consider when preparing your vehicle for the winter.

• Antifreeze – ensure it is mixed to the proper concentration
• Fan blades
• Wiper blades and wiper washer
• Brakes
• Thermostat calibration
• Water pump – leak and flow rate
• Hoses, clamps, belts
• Fuel system
• Electrical system and battery terminals
• Air systems – (vehicles with air brakes) drain any water in the lines
• Locks and hinges – make sure they are properly lubricated
• Tires – check for proper tread, tread depth and remember to check your tires often, each 10 degree
  drop in temperature lowers the air pressure by one pound
• Heater/Defroster – ensure it operates properly

Check your vehicle user manual to get any other manufacture’s recommendations before winter sets in. It’s a good idea to have a small emergency kit in the trunk of your car or in the back of your truck. A flashlight, ice scraper, first aid kit, extra washer fluid, and some flares are just a short list of items you could keep on hand for your vehicle.

Also, don’t trek across snowy terrains unless you have emergency supplies such as a jacket or warm coat, blanket or sleeping bag, protein bars, gloves, drinking water, flashlight and make sure your cell phone is fully charged. Be prepared to stay warm in case of an emergency. This is important on short trips as well. You never know what you could come across on a short trip across town in the winter.