Pre-flight your vehicle for winter weather Published Sept. 28, 2011 By Zach Sproul 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Fall has officially started, bringing cooler temperatures and changing weather patterns. This is the perfect time for a routine vehicle maintenance check to make sure it is in top shape for inclement weather. "One of the first things someone should do to their vehicle is schedule a tune-up," said Ground Safety Manager Craig Wetherington. A tune-up isn't a cure all, but when done regularly, it can prevent a host of expensive problems. No one checks under the hood anymore, said Wetherington. They rely on the car's safety warning lights too much these days. Checking belts and hoses for cracks and wear regularly is a good practice. Periodically test the car's thermostat. Other issues facing today's drivers are the modern cars themselves. Newer vehicles' headlights are made out of a polycarbonate material. Debris from the road becomes trapped in the pores over time, leading to discoloration of the lens. As an overall result of the degradation, the headlight not only becomes unsightly, but also unsafe. A headlight-restoration kit can be purchased at any local automotive store for $10-20. Changing out light covers is popular among young people today. This might look or seem cool, but covers can hinder visibility and cut down how well other drivers see you. During inclement weather it's a good practice to turn on your vehicle's lights to help defrost ice and snow. Using your lights, as well as removing ice and snow from the cars' hood, roof and trunk, is required by law in the State of Oklahoma. It is also safer. Check the tires on your vehicle for proper inflation and tread wear. For proper inflation, see your car's maintenance guidebook or the panel on the inside of the driver side door. If the tread on the tires are not within legal limit, replace them as soon as possible. Don't forget the spare tire. Check all fluid levels, especially coolant and windshield-washer fluid. During winter driving conditions it is important to have washer fluid that can withstand freezing temperatures. Don't settle for just the water with blue dye in it, said Wetherington. To keep your engine from both overheating and freezing the right mixture of antifreeze to water ratio is a must. Generally, 50 percent antifreeze, 50 percent water is best. However, always read the instructions on the container. In inclement weather it is a good practice to slow down on the wet surfaces, maintain a safe speed and do not use the cruise-control. When driving in inclement weather or any weather that requires you to use your windshield wipers, Oklahoma law requires the use of full lights, not just daytime running lights. "It is a good idea to carry an emergency preparedness kit in your vehicle at all times," Wetherington said. The kit should include, but is not limited to: hazard triangles, flashlight, water, spare batteries, gloves, a change of clothes and a good heavy blanket. The Vance Auto Skills Center is a great resource for anyone needing assistance on minor car repairs or routine check-ups Nathan Shearon, administrator at the Auto Skills Center said, "The Auto Skills Center is here for all active-duty military and their families, retirees, CSC Applied Technologies employees and civil servants to use." The center has the right tools and equipment to make sure vehicles are fully operational. Patrons of the Auto Skills Center will need to provide all parts and supplies required to repair their vehicle, said Shearon. For more information about the Auto Skills Center, call 213-7508.