Affiliate Disclosure: This winter guide is sponsored by Advance Auto Parts. As an affiliate partner of Advance Auto Parts, Automoblog may earn a commission if you purchase one of the products below. This commission comes to us at no additional cost to you.   

Why Pre-Winter Maintenance Is Important

Winter is different from other seasons because of the challenges and risks associated with driving. Snow and ice accumulation will make even the most familiar roads hazardous. The sun also sets earlier, meaning light is at a premium when we leave work after a long day. And we all know from experience that visibility during a snowstorm is limited at best. 

This is why it’s crucial to have a trusted mechanic inspect your vehicle. We recommend having this done while the weather is still relativity nice during the fall. This will give you time if you need to save up for bigger ticket items, like a new set of tires or a brake job. New tires and fresh brakes will help when you are navigating rush hour traffic during the winter. 
The items on this list, by contrast, are much less expensive than something like a new set of tires. However, each of them will give you an edge when Old Man Winter comes knocking.

#1: Change The Oil & Filter  

That age-old advice is still the best. Change your oil and filter at the mileage interval recommended by the manufacturer of your vehicle. Doing so will protect your engine and help i...