It is finally that time of year where we start to prepare for the coming colder months and the changing colors of our trees. 

 

It can be a little difficult when you are in the process of moving and not just in Florida, but all over the country, this is also when many people get their cars ready as well.

 

The first thing you want to do is check your windshield wiper fluid, if it is not in a reservoir bottle, do not use it because it can freeze and damage your wiper motor. Next make sure you have some extra that is already premixed so all you have to do is pop the top and put it on your windshield. 

 

This can save a lot of time if you are out in the rain and a front comes through or even dealing with freezing rain.

 

Next you will want to make sure your lights are in good condition. If you have burnt out lights, not only is it a safety issue, but it is also illegal. Get someone to change them for you or if you’re handy enough, you can do it yourself.

 

We all know that Florida weather can change quickly, especially coming from the northern states where they love their snow and ice. If you have not checked your windshield wiper blades lately, now is the time. Some people are kind enough to drive behind others and help them clean their windshield or offer to stop and do it for them. 

 

If you are that person, then why not stock up on some rain and make sure the other drivers appreciate it as well. There is nothing worse than trying to see while driving in the rain with wipers that barely move across the windshield. You do not want to get stuck behind someone that does not have wiper blades change since you will be at a larger distance than usual.

 

Unfortunately, all the rain and freezing temperatures can leave your windows foggy and even make the car appear wet, so you may want to check those out as well. Put some rain x on them and see if it helps with the visibility. 

 

The last thing you want is to have to have your wipers swing a bunch more times because of the foggy windows, so make sure they are working properly.

 

The next step is to check your tire pressure. If you are driving a sports car, this probably is not a huge concern because many of them do not have the best tires for snow and ice. If you have an SUV, truck or family sedan with all season tires, these will be your best option for colder weather, weather that can range from the freezing temperatures to the warm spring rain storms that we get. 

 

If you have not checked the air pressure in your tires, then now is the time to do it. You will want to put them on a table and use a good quality tire gauge.

 

 If you are not sure how much air pressure is in each tire, there is a chart on the door jamb of most cars that will tell you what it should be for that specific car.

 

If your car does not have all season tires, or if you are anticipating snow and ice, then you will want to get four winter type tires. When you get those you will want to talk to your garage and find out what is the best size for your vehicle. 

 

It is best not just to go by size this time of year, since the season does change and can even affect what type tire is used for winter.

 

When it comes to tires, make sure you have them filled properly on a level surface with no obstructions around your car or the pump. You should not have the tires on an incline, or hanging off of your car. 

 

Some states require that they must be filled while the car is on a level surface, so make sure you know the law there.

 

To take care of your car so it will be ready for the changing season and months of tough weather, you need to make sure that you have everything in a place that is easy to get to. You do not want to leave anything out on the edge or stuck under your seat that could fall out when it gets moved.

 

Remember when it comes to taking care of your car, the best thing is to be preventive instead of anything else.