If you live in a state that is subject to freezing temperatures, then you need to know how to winterize your car.

This is a lesson I learned the hard way when I was a farmer growing up in Kansas. One fall, when the temperatures began to drop, my dad asked: Have you checked the antifreeze in your car yet? Well, I thought, it’s not going to be that cold tonight. Unfortunately, it briefly dipped below freezing overnight. When I cranked up my 56 Olds it leaked as there was a crack in the block due to freezing.

If you’re nearing the end of summer, it’s time to winterize your car.

These are the steps to follow when summer comes to an end:

Antifreeze in the radiator checked and temperatures lower than expected?

Windshield washer fluids changed to antifreeze?

Oil – Switched to a multi grade like 10 w 30 for easier starts?

Replace wiper blades?

Tire pressure? – As the air gets colder, it gets lower.

Tire pressure? – Remember to check your spare tire.

Battery condition? – Check and replace if necessary.

Get a tune-up? – You want a car that won’t stall in a storm.

Do the heater and defroster work?

Snow tires? – Can be useful on drive wheels.

4 wheel drive? – It may be time to check that it works correctly.

Full gas tank? Prevents condensation from forming In severe weather, one can of gas tank antifreeze per tank is a good idea.

Blankets or insulating covers all in the trunk?

Winterizing your car is simply an annual ritual when you live in freezing climates.

A shovel and sandbags for icy-weather traction can be helpful in rear-wheel drive cars. Most cars these days are front wheel drive, so forget about sandbags in the trunk, it won’t help.

Do you have an ice scraper? You may also need a small box of emergency supplies such as a flashlight, extra anti-freeze gloves for the gas line, jumper cables, a small tool kit, boot covers, etc. in the trunk.

If you don’t have a cell phone, consider an emergency one with a car charger in case of a breakdown. They are available for emergency use only without a monthly fee.