This winter we are all feeling the cold weather and the impact that comes with it. The past couple of weeks have been frigid with temperatures in the negatives and single digits, and these temperatures are greatly impacting everyone’s cars. Have you had problems starting your car? Or do you dread cleaning off the snow? If so here are 5 tips and tricks to keep your car at its best this winter.

Keeping your battery in good shape is one of the most important things to do in the winter. According to consumerreports.org  at about 0° F, a battery has only about half the cranking power it has at 80° F.”. If your battery is five years or older it’s best to get a new one instead of being stranded in a parking lot in the frigid weather.

“When I went to start my car to warm it up, the engine wouldn’t turn on because it was below zero outside. And then my dad had to pull his car next to mine and jump it.” said junior Amanda Olsen. She has had many car troubles this winter and usually ends up not being able to start her car.

When heading out in the morning to our cars we are usually greeted with some ice on our windshield. Many people attempt to get the ice off with their wiper blades, but this can completely ruin them. Instead always carefully scrape your windshield with an ice scraper. When a snowstorm is coming over night or during the school day place your wipers in their raised position. This makes cleaning your car easier and to avoid them freezing to the windshield.

Making an emergency kit for your car is a good precaution to take during the winter months. The DMV says “Things like road flares, a jack, a lug wrench, and a first aid kit should be at hand no matter what.” but for the winter months put gloves, a hat, blanket, and flashlight in your car just incase you get stuck.  Other useful things to keep in your vehicle are, a small shovel, ice scraper and brush, and snacks. Extra coolant and antifreeze should always be with you as well just incase one is running low.