Easy tips to prepare your vehicle for the winter months

LOS ANGELES - Modern cars are much easier to winterize than they used to be. But there are still some precautions you can take to keep yourself moving without a tow truck this winter. 

According to DMV.org, you should start by checking fluids. Be sure to replace or refill your coolant, oil, and wiper fluid. Consult your owner’s manual as to the correct mixture for coolant and the proper thickness of your oil for the winter months. 

Check the battery. You know how it’s tough to get out of bed on a cold morning? Well, your car battery feels the same way.

Inspect or replace your tires. Deflated tires have poor traction, so it’s important to have the right tire pressure. If you live in an area where there’ll be snow, purchaser snow or all-season tires.

Check your defrosting and heating units to make sure they’re in tip-top shape.

Always make sure you have enough gas in the tank. The last thing you want is to be stranded in the cold, but shifting temperatures can also cause condensation to build up on the walls of your gas tank. When that water sinks into your fuel lines, it will freeze and you’ll be in trouble. 

Pack an emergency kit. Along with flashlights and flares, keep extra coats, gloves, boots, and blankets to keep you warm if something goes wrong. 

And if this is all too much to take in, take your car to a trusted mechanic instead. 

Watch the video for tips on winterizing your vehicle.