Car maintenance becomes even more crucial during winter. Here are some maintenance tips to help you avoid winter mishaps.

Regular, routine maintenance. Some drivers falsely assume that once the heat of summer has ended, routine maintenance isn't needed as frequently. Cold weather can still wreak havoc on a car's engine. Make sure you stay up-to-date on your car's maintenance. Check the vehicle's owner's manual and be sure to bring it into the dealer for regular tune-ups and oil changes. You'll also want to change air, fuel, positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system, and other filters to help your engine run more efficiently.

Proactive care. The winter's nice for sitting around a warm house, cozying up to loved ones, and watching holiday reruns. You may even fool yourself into thinking you don't need to be concerned with your vehicle's hard starting, rough idling, stalling, or diminished power. Get your car checked at the first sign of a problem or you might end up cozying up in the front seat of a tow truck with a complete stranger.

Winter precautions. Driving in the winter is tough enough. Driving with a dead battery is even tougher. Get your battery checked before you end up begging someone for a jump-start in a blizzard or rainstorm. It's also tough driving when you're shivering. Make sure the heater works. And while you're at it, get the defroster checked because it's really difficult to drive when you can't see the road, which is why you may want to invest in some new windshield wipers, too.

More winter precautions. Seeing the road is important, but so is being seen while you're on the road. Make sure your lights are functioning properly. Replace burnt-out bulbs immediately. That includes head lights, blinkers, brake lights, and any other illuminating indicator of your presence.

The exhaust system. Get the exhaust system checked. Winter driving often means driving with all the windows up for long periods. Faulty exhaust systems can result in deadly exhaust fumes in your vehicle. For your next tune-up, have the exhaust system inspected while on a lift. Also, be sure to inspect the trunk and floor boards for leaks.

Beyond car maintenance. Bringing your car in for winter maintenance should prevent common winter service mishaps, but it's also a wise decision to put a winter safety emergency kit in the vehicle. A kit should include extra boots, gloves, hats, and blankets. If you live in a snowy area, keep snow chains and some kitty litter in the trunk. And don't forget a flashlight, some extra batteries, and a snack.

Maintenance needs increase as temperature decreses. Our service department at 3 Birds Marketing is full of knowledgable technicians that can walk you through your winter service to get your car ready for the colder climate.