Routine maintenance is vital to your car's performance and longevity. It can help improve your gas mileage, reduce pollution, and catch minor problems before they become costly headaches. As the days get shorter and the temperature drops, make sure your car is ready for the change of season. Here are a few things you can do to get your vehicle ready for winter.

1. Review your owner's manual to be sure you're keeping up with recommended service schedules. If you don't have a manual, you can look up the make and model of your vehicle online to get an idea of what should be done.
2. Address existing problems before they get worse. Stalling, hard starts, and rough idling should be corrected before the cold weather settles in. Visit a reputable repair shop that employs certified mechanics.
3. Get an oil change. Protecting your engine is critical, especially in the cold weather. Get on a regular schedule for oil changes as specified in your owner's manual.
4. Make sure the heater and defroster are in good working condition. This is not only important for comfort, but for driver visibility.
5. Replace dirty filters to keep the engine running smoothly. A poorly running engine is less efficient and burns more gasoline.
6. Replace windshield wiper blades if needed. Whether it's raining or snowing, you want blades in working order to keep your windshield clear. Make sure you have enough windshield washer fluid in the reservoir and keep extra handy.
7. Have your battery tested and replaced if necessary. It's a good idea to have this done professionally to make sure you're getting an accurate assessment.
8. Examine your tires for proper inflation and tread depth. If your tires are underinflated, or your wheels are poorly aligned, your engine will work harder and use more gasoline. If the tread is worn or uneven, your tires will not grip the road and provide enough traction for safe driving.
9. Have your brakes checked before the change of season to ensure they are working correctly.
10. Keep an emergency kit in your car to include gloves, boots, blankets, an ice scraper, a flashlight, extra batteries, and water. It's always good to be prepared in the event you get stuck.

If you need to upgrade your current vehicle before the dead of winter, visit Hometown Auto. With two convenient locations in High Point and Winston Salem, we can help you find a car that suits your budget and lifestyle. Come see us today!