As the temperature drops and the leaves begin to change, it's time to break out the warmer clothing and stock up on firewood for the coming winter. Just as you prepare yourself for the change of season, it's important to get your car ready for the blustery months ahead. Since your vehicle has to work harder to perform its best in colder weather, here are some helpful tips.

• Make sure your tires are properly inflated and aligned. Check the tread depth for wear as you will likely see an increase in your driving at this time of year. Whether you're driving back and forth to the mall for gifts or taking a holiday road trip, a good set of tires is essential for your safety. If necessary, consider buying a new set of all-season tires with good traction, to better grip the road in wet and snowy conditions.
• Have your antifreeze checked during your next oil change. When it's time to replace it, look for a product that prevents cold weather freeze ups. Round out your cooling system checklist by testing the heater and defrost for proper operation.
• Change your oil to the lowest recommended grade for the best all-weather protection, fuel efficiency, and energy conservation. Synthetic oils help when starting a cold engine because they resist buildup of sludge.
• Check your battery and make sure terminals are cleaned and tightened. You should replace your battery every few years, so if you suspect it won't make it through the season, shop for a replacement. If necessary, look for a new model with more starting power, higher cold cranking amps, and reserve capacity.

If you haven't already done so, schedule a seasonal checkup with your mechanic. At Hometown Auto, you can come and see us for all your service needs after your purchase. We will make sure your car is in tip-top shape before the change of season.