It’s no secret that winter’s cold temps and unpredictable conditions can wreak havoc on a vehicle. Getting your car ready for the winter ahead can help you save on costly repairs and keep you from being stranded in less-than-ideal circumstances. Even if you live in a more temperate climate without snow and ice, the change of seasons is always a good time to have your vehicle checked and serviced. Here’s what you need to do to get your vehicle ready for winter:

Check the Battery and Charging System

Cold starts are hard enough without a weak battery or cable corrosion to deal with. Have your battery and cables checked and cleaned or replaced if necessary. It will help keep you from being stranded and you won’t be put in the position of over-paying due to desperation.                        

Replace Wiper Blades and Fill Cleaning Fluid

Good visibility is key to safe driving in snowy or rainy weather conditions. Don’t wait until that first storm to find out your wiper blades dont’ work or there’s no cleaning fluid left. Replace them now. If you live in a harsh climate, use winter wiper blades and cold-weather washer fluid.

Check Tires and Tire Pressure Regularly

It’s dangerous enough driving on snow- or rain-slicked roads, don’t let worn tires make it worse. Ensure your tires have plenty of tread left and keep them properly inflated throughout the season. You’ll not only have better control over your vehicle, maintaining the correct tire pressure can help you save on fuel costs (this is true year ‘round).

Check the Braking System

The middle of a winter storm is the wrong time to discover your brakes don’t work. Check your brakes early in the season and service or replace them if necessary. The money you spend will be well worth it and far less than what it would cost you if your faulty brakes were to cause an accident.

Change the Oil

Start the season with a fresh oil change and continue to change it at recommended intervals. If you live in a cold climate, winter weight oil can help keep the engine running smoothly and minimize rough starts.