Protect Your Vehicle This Winter with Tips from WaterSavers {Visa Gift Card Prize Pack Giveaway}

Typically when I think about winter and everything that my family needs to do to be prepared for the frigid aspects that it entails, my mind goes to snow pants and whether or not last year's boots and mittens still have their partner.

Next, fleece blankets are brought out to wrap up in on the couch; I breathe a sigh of relief when the heater kicks in on the first try; and a glance in the cupboard lets me know whether or not we have a big enough stock of hot chocolate for each time the kids come in from playing out in the snow. What doesn't come to mind? Whether or not my car is as ready for winter as the rest of us.

Therefore, when it comes to prepping our rides for the cold, I'm thankful for tips from knowledgeable folks like the International Carwash Association (ICA) who can help me out.

There is no doubt that the number of dollars we spend each year to keep our cars running adds up. However, this is particularly evident in the winter time when the harsh elements can challenge even the most conscientious car owners. One thing is for sure though, keeping your vehicle in good condition will ensure a safer ride in the short term and a higher resale or trade-in value down the road.

So, in the midst of the cold weather sweeping the nation, ICA offers the following tips to help ensure that your vehicle is prepared to weather just about any storm!

Tips for Getting Your Car Ready For Winter:

1. A clean car is your first line of defense against winter. While the winter season typically takes a toll on your car, proper maintenance can go a long way to preserving your investment. For example, according to the International Carwash Association, getting a new wash and a fresh coat of wax before the temperature starts to fluctuate can be your first line of defense against winter elements like ice, salt, sand and slush.

Vehicular corrosion also occurs most quickly when temperatures rise and then fall below freezing. That is why most auto manufacturers recommend getting your car washed and waxed at a professional car wash twice a month, especially during the winter.

Using a WaterSavers Car Wash can is a strong first step to ensuring that your car will be ready to withstand the winter elements, both inside and out. It is also a great way to protect the environment. For example, these car washes typically use only 40 gallons (151.5 liters) or less of fresh water per car wash. Learn more and find a WaterSavers wash near you by visiting washwithwatersavers.com.

2. Rotate your tires. Most people know they should get their oil changed every 3,000 miles, but many forget their tires need maintenance as well. Tires should be rotated before winter and then again every 6,000 miles.

3. Add some winter weight to your oil. Changing your oil and filter is especially important during the winter. Drivers who live in a colder climate should consider changing to heavier, winter-weight oil during the winter months.

4. Take care of your wiper blades. Your windshield wiper blades are your first line of defense when the snow starts to fly. Make sure your wiper blades are in good, working order and replace them if you have doubts. It is better to make this change now instead of finding out your blades aren't working when you really need them.

5. Take your car in for a tune-up. Any noises, pings or sluggish starts you currently notice will only intensify as the temperature drops. It is best to get your vehicle in for a tune-up as soon as possible to get any issues addressed.

6. Give your steering some power. Check your powering steering fluid each month, and make sure the car is warmed up before you do so. If you find the level is low, look for leaks in the hoses or pump. Low power steering fluid will make your car more difficult to steer, which is something you'll want to avoid as the roads get slick.

7. Protect yourself from carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide leaks are dangerous at any time, but they are especially deadly during the winter when you will be driving your vehicle with the windows closed. Have your exhaust system checked to make sure no leak exists.

8. Apply the brakes. Besides the seatbelt, your car's brakes are its most important safety feature. This is especially true in the winter when slippery conditions can make stopping difficult. Before the first snow fall, bring your car to an experienced mechanic to verify that your brakes are ready for the season.

Cold winter temperatures mean vehicle maintenance is even more important. By following these simple tips listed above, you'll be able to ward off winter's harshest advances, protect your investment and those who ride inside of it. To learn more about protecting the value of your vehicle, be sure to visit washwithwatersavers.com!

Thanks to the generosity of ICA and WaterSavers, one person will be able to feel even more prepared for the remainder of winter as well, because...

One lucky person will win a $30 Visa gift card, a thermal travel mug, a fleece travel blanket, and a hand mitt ice scraper!

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I am working with the International Carwash Association to share these tips. However, my opinions are entirely my own and I have not been paid to publish positive comments.