Extreme temperatures can be hard on your vehicle. When it gets really cold, potential problems can arise, which may lead to a minor inconvenience or costly repairs. Preventative maintenance is key to protecting your car from the cold. Here are some tips to help ensure your car runs smoothly in the months ahead. 

1. Check your battery. Perform a visual inspection of your battery to check for corrosion and loose cables. Start your car to recharge and warm up your battery everyday, even if you're not going anywhere. When the temperature dips below 32 degrees, your battery loses some of its strength and has a harder time performing its job. Replace your battery if needed or as recommended in your owner's manual. 
2. Fill your fluids. Oil, antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid are necessary for your car to function safely. Be sure to get your oil changed regularly, flush your antifreeze if it's been a few years, and top off the wiper fluid so your visibility is always clear. 
3. Assess your tire pressure. A drop in temperature can cause a reduction, or restriction, of air in tires. For proper handling, you should always have the correct tire pressure in your tires. Check your owner's manual or the label inside the driver's door for the correct psi.
4. Fill up your tank. It's never a good idea to drive your car on empty, especially in the winter. Condensation in the empty part of your gas tank can freeze, ice your fuel lines, and prevent your car from starting. As a general rule, fill up when you get below half a tank. 

Stay clear of weather-related problems by having your car inspected twice a year. If you purchase a used vehicle at Hometown Auto, come see us for all your service needs. We will keep your car in tip-top shape so you don't have to worry when it gets cold.