Well, some of us were wanting a white Christmas and it didn’t happen. Now, on the day after Christmas, the winter weather finally came. With 4″-7″ of snow in the forecast for today, I am sure there are some people wishing that Santa would have brought them a new car for Christmas.

To be prepared for winter weather, here are a few winterization tips for you current vehicle brought to you by, www.suite101.com

The Winter Driving Checklist

•Antifreeze – Antifreeze levels should be topped up, maintaining a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water. This will keep the engine running smoothly, even after it’s been sitting in the cold.
•Windshield Wipers- Tired, old windshield wipers should be replaced with new winter wiper blades. Most experts believe they should be changed at least twice a year or every 6,000 miles; not just once every two or three years.
•Rain Repellant – Clear visibility is a must. According to Motor Matters, a good rain repellant provides a clear view of the road ahead. When sprayed onto the windshield before driving, it creates an invisible film that repels rain from the window. Rain-X, Amsoil Rain Clear Windshield Protectant and Aquapel Glass Treatment are comparable options.
•Snow Brushes/Scrapers – Existing snow brushes and scrapers should be relocated, or new ones should be purchased to keep in the vehicle for those frosty mornings and eventual snow.
•Car Battery – If the battery very corroded or is more than three years old, it should either be replaced or inspected by professionals. This prevents against getting stranded in a cold parking lot with a car that refuses to start.
•Jumper Cables – Cables should be kept in the vehicle, just in case the car needs to be jump-started.
•Starting Fluid – For an extra measure, starting fluid should be kept in the trunk for when the starter fails and the engine won’t turn over.
Beyond the Basics for Weatherization

In addition to these basic weatherization tips, auto experts advise checking the ignition, brakes, wiring, hoses and fan belts. They should be replaced if they’re cracked, frayed or pitted. They’ll be more susceptible to fail when moisture and cold form ice in weak areas.

A tune-up is recommended to ensure better gas mileage, quicker starts and faster response on pick-up and passing power.

Also…

•Spark Plugs should be changed or adjusted;
•Air, Fuel and Emission Filters, and the PCV Valve should be inspected;
•The Distributor should be checked;
•Tires should be inspected for air, sidewall wear and tread depth.
The old adage, expect the best but prepare for the worst is a useful phrase. There may be times when getting stuck in the snow or stranded in the cold is inevitable, so it’s advised to stock the vehicle with warm blankets, flares, gloves, a shovel, a de-icer, a crank radio, snacks and first aid kit.

Copyright Estelle Rodis-Brown

Read more at Suite101: Winterize Your Car for Cold Weather | Suite101 http://suite101.com/article/winterize-your-car-for-cold-weather-a152953#ixzz2GAyLDVOc

Of course, if you are tired of the maintenance and hassles of your old car and think it may be time for an upgrade, the Happy Car Store, Glenbrook Hyundai, in Fort Wayne, next to Red Lobster, has exactly what you need!

Here are a some of the current specials at the Happy Car Store:

2013 Hyundai Sonata – Choose from ZERO percent financing for 5 full years or $1,500 in holiday cash. Lease payments starting at $245 per month with no money out of pocket PLUS $500 in rebates.

2013 Hyundai Elantra – $500 in holiday cash and lease payments starting at $239 with NO MONEY out of pocket.

2013 Hyundai Accent – Lease for as little as $225 per month with NO MONEY out of pocket.

Glenbrook Hyundai is a family owned and operated Hyundai dealership located in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The Happy Car Store’s main goal is to insure all of our customers are treated with respect and find a vehicle that works in their budget. Swing by and say hi or check us out online anytime at http://www.HappyCarStore.com.