Before it gets cold check the following (or have them checked):

Cooling System: Flush according to schedule in the owner’s manual & protect the radiator and engine to well below zero degrees Fahrenheit.

Heater, Defroster & Wipers: Check and repair or replace, if needed.

Fuel System: Replace fuel and air filters according to owner’s manual. Keep water out of the system by using gasline antifreeze or ethanol blended gasoline and by keeping your tank filled./p>

Oil: If necessary, replace existing oil with a winter grade oil.

Battery/Ignition System: Be sure battery terminals are clean and system is in top condition. Replace battery according to recommended schedule. Old and worn parts are quicker to fail in cold weather.

Lights: Make sure all your lights and signals are working.

Exhaust System: Check for leaks to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Tires: Be sure all tires have good tread.

Brakes: Check for wear and fluid level.

Emergency Travel Kit: Have one in each of your vehicles.

Adapted with permission from Montana Disaster & Emergency Survival Guide, http://www.mdt.mt.gov/publications/docs/brochures/winter_maint/winter_survival.pdf