BALTIMORE, MD—During the holiday season, car maintenance might be the last thing on your mind – but preparing your car for winter is crucial for safety and gas mileage.

Avoid breaking down, getting stuck in snow, or being left out in the cold by following the 10 easy ways to prep your car for winter, courtesy of GasBuddy…

FLUIDS
Keep an eye on antifreeze, oil and washer fluid levels to keep your car running smoothly and safely. If you need a top-up, now is the time to do it.

HEATER
Stay toasty warm by running your heater and defroster now to ensure they’re working properly. Especially if you’re planning on taking a longer trip this winter, you’re going to want to make sure you don’t have to go without heat.

WIPER BLADES
Did you know that there are special windshield wipers made for ice and snow? Upgrade to a winter blade that can handle any weather condition that you may face in the colder months.

LIGHTS
Test all your lights (including hazards) and make sure you have a spare set of bulbs on hand. In case you get stuck without access to assistance, it’s not a bad idea to brush up on installation, either.

GAS
Keep your tank above half full to avoid freezing your fuel lines and damaging the fuel pump. Looking for savings? Make sure to check the GasBuddy app for the best prices

TIRES
Tackle snowy terrain by making sure your treads are in good shape and your pressure’s up to par. If you’re somewhere extra snowy, purchasing and installing a pair of snow tires may be helpful.

BATTERY
Clean up any corrosion, then get it tested at your local maintenance shop to ensure you won’t get stuck in the cold.

BRAKES & 4-WHEEL DRIVE
Test both systems before the roads get bad to make sure they’re in working order. Functional brakes are essential for your safety on icy roads, and 4-wheel drive could help you get out of sticky (or snowy) situations.

EMERGENCY KIT
It never hurts to be prepared! Pack an ice scraper/brush, flashlight, flares, blanket, hand warmers, water, snacks, jumper cables, phone charger and washer fluid.

PLAN
When conditions become icy and snowy, pay attention to where you’re driving and check routes before you go. Local news and weather stations are great resources to help you stay safe – subscribe to alerts now if they’re offered.