Winter car checklist

Better than leave safety to chance, here’s a checklist for prewinter maintenance.

• Check the battery

• Check antifreeze levels and the quality of the fluid already in the vehicle’s system

• Replace dirty filters, such as air, fuel, and oil. A poorly running engine is less efficient and burns more gasoline.

• As the temperature drops below freezing, add a bottle of fuel de-icer in the tank about once a month to help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line.

• Keep gas tanks at least half-full to help prevent moisture from forming.

• Replace old windshield wiper blades regularly. A purchase of rubber-clad (winter) blades will fight ice buildup. Stock up on windshield washer fluid

• Always carry an ice scraper.

• Ensure that your heater and defroster are working properly.

• Check that your vehicle’s radio is working properly so you can receive weather and traffic reports.

• Make sure all lights are working.

• Always carry an emergency kit including extra gloves, boots and blankets; flares; a small shovel and sand or kitty litter; tire chains; a flashlight and extra batteries; and a cellphone and extra car charger

Information from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and Stan Graver’s Auto Repair.