No matter where you live, getting your car maintained and prepared for winter is a very good idea. We've written in the past about how the cold weather can affect your car. It causes your tires to deflate more quickly, increases the likelihood that you'll have a stalled battery, and thickens the fluids that keep your engine running. However, even if you live in an area where you're not affected by cold weather, routine car maintenance is still important because the days are much shorter. You don't want to be stuck on the side of the road in need of a tow in the dead of night. In addition to that, routine maintenance extends the life of your car, maximizes its performance, and ensures healthy gas mileage. So what should you do to get your car ready for winter now that it is here? Here are five things you should think about doing today: Check Your Owner's Manual: This is probably the first thing you should do. Review maintenance and service schedules to see if your vehicle is due. Review Your Tire's Pressure: Like we said, tire pressure dips a little quicker this time of year. Make sure to fill your tires to an adequate level and have them rotated if you haven't done so in a while. If your tires' tread is looking worn down, it might be time to replace your tires. Always heed on the side of caution when it comes to winter weather. And remember, you don't have to spend a fortune on new tires. You can find cheap tires online at the Tire Depot. Have Your Battery Checked: The cold weather is hard on batteries. The best way to know how well your battery is doing is to have it tested by a professional. Although you can look for clues, like the presence of corrosion, it can be dangerous to handle battery acid and cabling. If you do check it yourself, always wear gloves and goggles. Inspect all Lights and Bulbs: Little daylight and snowstorms are a bad combination if you have a light that is out. Wipe lenses periodically to remove grime, but don't use a dry rag as this could scratch the light. Get Your Brakes Checked: You may need to make quick stops during winter. It's best to know that your brakes are in good shape before you go out on the road.
