Summer has come and gone in the blink of an eye, and the season that everyone's loves to hate is quickly approaching– winter. Soon we will have frosted car windows, a jacked up heating bill and we’ll be wishing that we installed that remote car starter.

Rather than pretending winter doesn’t exist, being prepared is the best way to avoid the stress of the first snowfall. If all your ducks are in a nice, orderly row, you can embrace all that winter can be (or hide inside with your BFF, Netflix). First things first is getting your car ready for the transition into sub-zero temperatures and icy roads, and with these seven easy steps, you’ll be ready for winter in no time.

Step 1: Always prepare for the unexpected

This should be an all-season rule, but if you don't already have an emergency kit in your car, start packing. This kit should be stocked with water, dried snacks, a blanket, gloves, ice scraper, a flashlight with extra batteries, shovel, jumper cables, tool kit, spare tire, duct tape, tire chains, flares, tire gauge, reflective triangles, paper towel and/or rags, and a bag of sand, salt or non-clumping kitty litter to use for extra traction if caught in the snow.

Step 2: Make sure your vision is clear  

There are a few suggestions to help make this happen. First, you want to get any existing rock chips or cracks filled so they don’t expand over the winter, or you’ll end up having to get a whole new windshield installed.

Second, when is the last time you changed your windshield wipers? Windshield wipers tend to be good for about a year, so be sure to invest in a good set so you don’t have to worry about any build-up of slush or ice on them. Lastly, fill up your windshield wiper fluid with the appropriate kind. Make sure the fluid is made specifically for freezing temperatures.

Step 3: Clean your headlights

Did you know your vehicle's headlights need TLC? Yes, headlight restoration is a thing, so you can stop driving with your high beams on just to see the road. The team at Boyd Autobody & Glass can make your lights clear again by removing any stains, haziness or peeling that you may have. Plus, for the months of October and November, all proceeds go to Cops for Kids so you can feel great about checking something off your list and giving back to the community. 

Step 4: Make sure your battery has some juice

Cold temperatures can quickly reduce your car’s battery power because your engine requires more current from the battery in order to get it started. When temperatures hit the freezing mark, your battery will run at about half the power, so make sure to have a peek under the hood to make sure your battery is in working order.

Step 5: Check your tire pressure

With Christmas right around the corner, new winter tires may not make the top of your shopping list. If that’s the case and you won’t be purchasing a new set, at least be sure to have your tires appropriately inflated since cold temperatures cause your tire’s air pressure to drop. A proper amount of air in your tires will make for the best traction for your vehicle, which will ensure safety when you hit the road.

Step 6: Examine the coolant system

It’s important to make sure you have the correct antifreeze/water mixture, typically a 50/50 ratio, as this will prevent the coolant in your radiator from freezing. On top of that, sometimes switching to a thinner oil is recommended when temperatures drop below freezing. Check your owner’s manual for instruction and tips. 

Step 7: Change your tires

Since our roads are covered in snow and ice for most of the winter, it is advised to upgrade your all-season to winter tires. During your winter road trips, your snow tires will provide traction and safety as a result of tread patterns that are specifically designed to anchor into ice and snow. 

Winter doesn't have to be that dreaded storm on the horizon. If you get your car ready now, by the time that first snowfall hits us you'll be ready to enjoy winter for all it has to offer!