How to winterize your vehicle

11/10/2011

Winter is coming, and that means that drivers need to take some necessary precautions to ensure that their vehicles survive the cold weather. Lower temperatures affect a number of systems in the vehicle, and it's important that drivers pay attention to this. Edmunds recently provided a few tips for what drivers can do to protect their vehicles.

"No one wants to work on a car in cold, sloppy conditions, so now is a great time to start winterizing your car," said Phil Reed, senior consumer advice editor at Edmunds.com. "Taking on these preventative measures will significantly reduce your chances of experiencing the nightmare scenario of having to wait for a tow truck in a heavy snowstorm."

As the temperature falls, so does the pressure in your tires. Be sure to check your tire pressure and add some extra air if necessary. It might be a good time to think about a tire replacement as well. Many stores will be offering tire sales to prepare for winter, and snow tires can make a big difference.

Another important consideration is oil changes, reports the news source. Older engines require a low-viscosity oil in colder temperatures. Even if you have a newer car, it can't hurt to swap out the oil if you haven't done so recently.