Basil Cars offers tips on winter car preparation

November means winter is just around the corner, and Basil Cars is offers tips on preparing a vehicle for the cold weather season.

A posting on the Basil Cars website recommends replacing or refilling all fluids, such as windshield washer fluid and coolant. Select a freeze-resistant windshield washer fluid if you live in a climate where temperatures drop below freezing.

Make sure wiper blades work properly. If not, consider purchasing blades made for winter. 

Replace dirty air filters. Check the vehicle owner's manual to see if the vehicle has a cabin air filter too; many newer cars do.

Check tires once a month, or weekly as the temperatures drop. Rotate tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Check tire tread depth and also look for uneven wear. Winters in areas such as Buffalo can mean heavy snow and iffy roads. Winter tires have better traction for icy and snowy conditions, the posting said.

Batteries usually last up to five years, but sometimes fail in cold weather. Have the battery tested to ensure it still functions properly, the posting said

Make sure the heater and defroster also work, and stock the car with ice scrapers, snow brushes, jumper cables, a flashlight and safety gear such as a blanket, first-aid kit and even flares, the posting said.