1. Radiator flush – This can be done at most oil change stations for around $40. They use a pressurized method of flushing so that all the old stuff gets out and you have clean system with fresh antifreeze. I had a car with over 100K miles on it and never really thought to check the coolant let alone have it flushed, but when I did I was shocked. The amount of crud that comes out is unreal, and when its done you can be sure you’re not going to have problems in the cooling system

2.Tire pressure – Be sure to check your tire pressure because it can fluctuate in cold weather. There are usually gauges built into the air machines at gas stations but they’ll get you for $.75 at most of them. You may find one that will activate the air for free if you pump some gas. Maintain the right tire pressure and you’ll get better gas mileage too.

3. Gas tank – Try to avoid letting your gas tank go below 1/8 tank because depending on how cold it gets you could have some issues with freezing. I’m a chronic “on E” driver, and sometimes I seriously think I’m going to run out of gas in the most inappropriate time / place.

4. First aid / Emergency road side kit – Keep one of these in your trunk and have some essentials such as road flares, matches, emergency blanket, jumper cables, first aid, lock deicer, map, disposable camera, etc.

5. Ice scraper and brush

6. Refill your windshield wiper fluid

7. Replace windshield wipers