by AJ Roderick

Created on: September 21, 2009

Preparing your vehicle for the onslaught of winter may seem like a daunting task. Don't lose hope - here are some quick, affordable and simple solutions to winterize your vehicle. Whether you are a veteran of the cold weather or it is your first time experiencing the season as a car owner, these tips will equip you with the necessary items you'll need to survive the deep freeze.

1) Oil Change and Fluid check
If you have not brought your vehicle in for servicing in the last 2-3 months before the snow falls, this is the best time to do it. Have your oil changed, your transmission fluid checked, your coolant flushed and replaced, and make sure you add winter specific windshield washer fluid to your reservoir. The winter specific fluids contain less water and have a lower freezing point.

2) Service the battery
- If your car is a few years old, you may want to have the battery checked for its charge level. The terminals will need to be cleaned and its water levels topped up. You may have to replace the battery if its levels are too low and do not have enough cranking power to start when the temperature dips. This is an essential step to winterize your car or truck.

3) Have a block heater installed.
If your vehicle does not have a block heater, this is a sound investment you must consider. A block heater warms the temperature of your coolant liquid, and once it circulates, will warm up your vehicle quicker upon starting. If you already have a block heater installed, make sure that it is working properly by having it tested at a garage for current draw.

4) Have Winter tires put on your vehicle
A majority of vehicles come with 'all season' radials, but they are quite ineffective in deep snow and icy conditions. Invest in a set of winter tires which have an aggressive tread and have a high traction rating on ice. They may be more costly, but your spending should not take precedent over your safety. This is another important step to winterize your vehicle.

5) Tire Pressure
Winter tires are softer than regular all season radials, and in the winter the tire pressure is lower to create more surface with the ground, and due to the air being cooler. Make sure that the tire pressure is correct when the winter set of tires are installed on your vehicle. Overfilling will result in alignment issues and added wear.

6) Winter Wiper Blades
- Change your wiper blades for a covered set. These wiper blades have a protective covering that shields the armature and hinges from snow and ice, allowing

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