AAA suggests every vehicle be inspected prior to winter weather. Start with the following points of importance:
- Have your exhaust, muffler and tailpipe inspected for cracks and visible defects.
- Keep the gas tank at least half full to prevent frozen fuel lines and to allow you to drive an alternate route to safety or run your car's heater if you get stranded.
- Maintain a vehicle emergency kit with jumper cables, a small shovel, some sand or cat litter for traction, a flashlight and extra batteries, flares or reflective triangles, and a cell phone.
- Keep a bottle of lock deicer in your purse or jacket to avoid costly delays during winter travel.
- Turn on the heater to ensure it's in proper working for the cold months ahead.
- Check your tires to see if they have at least 1/8 inch of tread and to make sure they are properly inflated.
- Inspect wiper blades for wear and tear, and make sure they are in good condition to clear the windshield of heavier precipitation associated with winter months.
- Change the air filter, if dirty, for more effective fuel and engine performance.
- Clear snow and ice from your entire vehicle and keep it clear so that, if you have to stop in an emergency, other drivers can see your hazard lights.
- Have belts and hoses inspected and, if necessary, replaced according to the manufacturer's suggestions.
- Have your battery tested to ensure it is free of corrosion, has adequate water and is still strong enough to endure cold weather.
- Change oil and check the level according to the manufacturer's suggestions.
- Have brakes inspected by a professional mechanic to ensure they are in sound working order.
- Flush and replace antifreeze in the radiator.
- Replenish washer reservoir with the appropriate ratio of water to windshield antifreeze.
Source: American Automobile Association
