Winter has arrived early this year, with snowfall covering the roads all over the northern half of the United States. Weather-related accidents, stalling vehicles and holiday shoppers make the roads as busy and dangerous as ever. Whether you are traveling to visit family, friends or simply driving to work during this cold season, be sure to check and maintain your vehicle to prevent delays or potential problems. Here is a list of what you should check, double-check, or have a professional look at:

If you havent looked yet, your vehicles owners manual holds everything you need to know about your vehicle, including the manufacturers recommended service schedule.

Are you already having a difficult time starting your vehicle, is your car shaking too much while idling, stalling, or showing signs of low power? Cold weather will only make it worse.

Air, Fuel and PCV filters are important. Replacing a dirty filter with a new clean one will prevent build-up and keep your engine running efficiently; all the while burning less gasoline.

With traffic this holiday season, your vehicle will be in constant stop-and-go conditions, which can cause it to burn oil more quickly. Be sure to follow your owner’s manual and get the recommended oil and filter change.

Simply adding a bottle of fuel de-icer once a month to your gas tank will help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line.

You will need to buy or use professional equipment, or take your vehicle to someone who has the proper equipment to accurately determine whether you have a weak battery. If you prefer to inspect the battery yourself, beware of the hazards and wear eye protection and protective rubber gloves.

If you have burnt-out bulbs, replace or repair them. In snowy weather, visibility can become an issue. Working bulbs help other drivers see you and may help prevent a serious accident.

Are your wipers not cleaning your windshield well enough, leaving streaks that make it difficult to see at times? Don’t just try to see through your windshield with the blades you have—get them replaced so you can see the road ahead.

Check your brakes periodically for safety and to help prevent costly repairs caused by neglect. Braking issues can be especially dangerous on slippery roads.

The cooling system should be flushed and refilled as recommended by the manual. If you are checking or changing the coolant yourself, be sure to remember to never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled. Also make sure your heater and defroster are in great working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility.

Having an emergency kit in your trunk is always a good idea. You never know when you might be stuck on the side of the road. Extra gloves, boots, blankets, rations, flares, a shovel, tire chains, a flashlight, spare batteries, and car chargers could save you in situations where help could be a while away.

Be sure to check your tires to prevent slips and blowouts. Examine tires for remaining tread life, uneven wear, cuts, nicks, and cupping. Check all of your tires’ pressure to make sure they are at the recommended PSI listed in your owner’s manual. Lastly, be sure to always have a jack and a spare wheel just in case.

The main thing to take away from these tips is that a safe and maintained vehicle with recommended supplies will only help you in staying on top of things and ready for any situation you may encounter with your vehicle during the winter. For more professional help, give our service department a call at (330) 644-8888, and lets have a look to see if your vehicle is in the best condition it can be in for the winter or the time to come.