Sure, there is a chance that you live in an area where 45 degrees is a cold day and rain is the worst weather you have to prepare for.  But for the rest of us who have to fight through the snow and ice 3-5 months out of every year, there are a few things that we need to do to make travel safer. 

The first thing is making sure that you get the oil changed, and checked.  You want to make sure that you are getting the right type of oil change as well.  There are some cars that suggest different grades of oil for the winter.  Oil changes are important, especially in the winter, because as oil gets older, it gets thicker.  The cold weather also makes the oil thicker and could clog the engine and cause some serious damage.

Another thing you want to make sure is working properly and replaced is the windshield wipers.  With slush and ice being thrown up on your car your wipers need to be in top shape.  While you’re at it check the windshield wiper fluid as well.  Water won’t cut it anymore, so make sure that you’ve got plenty in there and check it frequently, you probably use it a lot more than you think.

Checking your belts, hoses and tire pressure are all needed as well.  With the cold weather, belts get stiffer and if they are already damaged can break easily.  Hoses are the same way.  As far as tire pressure goes, as the air gets colder it condenses.  You generally lose about one pound of pressure for every ten degrees (F) the temperature drops.  Full tires offer significantly better traction.  Speaking of tires, throwing a pair of snow tires on the credit card and having those for the really bad days is never a bad idea, especially if you live in a particularly hilly area. 

An emergency kit is something you should always have in the car, but in the winter it’s essential.  Be sure that you have blanket, boots, gloves, a shovel, windshield washer fluid, flares, a spare tire, sand or kitty litter for added traction if you are stuck, and a credit card or money in case of emergencies.  If  you need a tow, you get stuck in the snow without that money.  It’s not always easy to drive in the snow, but it is easy to prepare for it, so don’t procrastinate or you may end up stranded and freezing on the side of the highway.