FORT SMITH (KFSM) – There may not be snow and ice on the roads just yet, but Jeff Edwards with Jody's Auto Care Service center says now is a good time to winterize your car.
“If you don't get your car ready, you can have problems such as breaking belts, radiator hoses going bad and coolant freezing, which can cause damage to your engine,” Edwards said.
One of the first things he recommends checking is the air in your tires. Don’t forget about the spare tire in the trunk of your car.
“In Arkansas, as we've seen in November, we had 20 degree weather for most of the month. Then December we've had 60 degree weather,” Edwards said. “With the temperature fluctuation, you can actually lose up to two to three pounds a month.”
Edwards said check the anti-freeze too.
Don’t forget the windshield wipers and washer fluids. Edwards said there are two types of washer fluid – one meant for winter, and one meant for summer.
Another thing to remember -- don't slam on the brakes when the roads are icy.
“Most cars now days are equipped with an anti-lock brake system. And what that does, is that does the pumping for you,” Edwards said. “So when your car determines that you're sliding, it uses a motor, an ABS motor and module that pulsates your brakes to keep you straight and on the road."
Eric Hill is from Indiana, and is used to more intense winter weather, but he said he's still prepared.
“[I] keep a small kit in the car, an ice scraper and deicer, blankets and water,” Hill said.
Edwards said you should also check your battery because cables can crack in the winter.