9 Ways to Get Your Car Winter Ready

First, check the tread. If it's less than one-eighth of an inch deep, you're in violation of Colorado's Winter Traction Law. While you're at it, look for cracks and uneven wear. All of those can be a good reason to get new tires.

If you've changed them in the last few months, you're probably in decent shape right now. If not, buy and install some or at least keep a new set in your car.

Fill and keep plenty of washer fluid in the reservoir. Now is also a good time to start switching to winter fluids which have a lower freezing point. While you're at it, check to make sure the washer system is working properly. Also, buy some windshield deicer and pack it with those extra wiper blades.

Headlights, tail lights, signals, emergency flashers and marker lights all need to be working properly. You want to be as visible as possible when driving in a snowstorm.

If it's not blowing warm air or it's not blowing it where it's supposed to, get it fixed. Also, check rear and other window defrosters to make sure they're operational.

Some people use additives to get rid of possible condensation in the tank. To them, it's a few ounces of prevention. The most important thing is to keep a decent amount of fuel in the tank all winter and make sure the tank is full before traveling. You may need that extra fuel if you get stuck in winter traffic.

There are a lot of things that can make a car hard to start. Annoyances now will probably turn into big problems when it gets cold and snowy. Get a tune-up, new battery, and fix what else may be wrong before you're stranded on a cold snowy day.

It's hard enough to stop on snow and ice with good brakes. Bad brakes are an accident waiting to happen. It can be hard for drivers to tell just how much wear their brakes have, so get them checked by a professional. If you're getting new tires or rotation ask for a brake check.

Leaks are not good anytime. In Colorado, the possibility of being stopped for more than a short time with the car running to keep everyone warm greatly increases in the winter. So does the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Have the exhaust checked for any leaks and get them repaired immediately.