As the colorful leaves gather in piles on the ground, the naked trees sway with anticipation of the impending winter. It's a clear sign to us all that a new season is upon us in Amherst, NY. But before the snow starts accumulating, there are some things you must know. Vehicle winterization is a common oversight for many drivers who neglect to prepare for the cold weather. Even when you're behind the wheel in Buffalo, NY, there are many things that can go wrong. But with some preemptive prep and winterized incentive, you can ensure your vehicle is equipped for the upcoming winter season!

Here are five vehicle winterization tips from the experts at Northtown Mazda:

Check Your Wiper Blades

• Your Mazda in Niagara Falls, NY, is only as good as its windshield wiper blades during a snowstorm. Visibility outside of your windshield during inclement weather is needed to operate safely behind the wheel. Check your wiper blades and your windshield wiper fluid under the hood to make sure you are sufficiently topped off.

Inspect Your Battery

• A dead battery on the snow-banked highways in North Tonawanda will surely slow you down. But before even heading out, it's important to inspect your battery thoroughly. Check for any obvious signs of corrosion, and make sure that your battery terminals are secured tightly.

Get Oil Change

• Fresh motor oil helps enhance the performance of your engine on the roads in Tonawanda. As the weather gets colder, your vehicle will be forced to work harder and exert more energy. Getting an oil change before the season starts is a great way to replenish your system and get your car on-track to withstand the frigid conditions to come.

Pack Emergency Kit

• Northtown Mazda recommends packing an emergency car kit to keep inside of your vehicle at all times during the winter. Your kit should include the essentials, as well as what you feel your family needs to survive in an emergency (e.g., extra warm clothes, non-perishable food, bottled water, flashlight, reflective gear, a small shovel, and jumper cables.)

Inspect Your Tires

• Arguably the most important vehicle winterization tip, inspecting your tires is crucial this winter. Check for tread depth and any bald spots, which may indicate that your tires need to be replaced. If you live near Lockport, NY, where there's heavy snowfall, consider swapping your current tires for snow tires.

For more information, please call, click, or contact us online at Northtown Mazda!