Winterize Your Ride Before The Cold Winter Winds Blow In

DETROIT--Nov. 22, 2011: Old Man Winter is preparing to knock, with the hectic holiday season right behind him. The editors of Shop Auto Week have compiled helpful tips to get your ride ready for the busy cold months, just in time to enjoy a last scenic tour through autumn's late-falling leaves.

"The good thing about winterizing your vehicle is that it involves mostly inexpensive, preventative maintenance," said Shop Auto Week associate editor Angie Fisher. "A simple fix like changing worn wiper blades now means you won't have to scramble if that first snowfall comes as a surprise--just ask our friends in Connecticut."

Editors at shopautoweek.com spoke with industry experts who recommend drivers also take a look at the following areas:

• Battery: Mopar advises the extreme heat of the summer months can reduce battery life, resulting in batteries that then fail in high-demand winter months. AC Delco tells consumers to watch for corrosion on cables and posts and seek help from a professional if these contact points require cleaning.
• Tires: Changing temperatures can alter tire pressure. Make sure all tires are filled to their recommended tire pressure. Also check for tread wear. Tires play a huge role in how well your car handles in sloppy winter driving conditions.
• Oil and other fluids: Top off all fluids that have run low. Windshield-washer fluid is used frequently in winter driving, so keep a spare gallon in your trunk to ensure you will always have a clear view of the road. Check the oil, and change it if the time is right.
• Headlamps and tail lamps: So you've completed a pre-winter inspection of your car, but the guy behind you probably didn't. Check your lights to make sure you are as visible as possible to other drivers. Even better, Sylvania says swapping out dull bulbs is easy.

"Another good thing about winterizing your vehicle this time of year is that once you're done, you're free to enjoy the rest of fall," said shopautoweek.com associate online editor Sherrice Gilsbach. "There are still amazing colors to see through November, particularly in the South and West--like along North Carolina's Blue Ridge Parkway and Oregon's Historic Columbia River Highway."