5 simple 'checks' to winterize your car

We know winter driving is right around the corner, so we spoke to an auto expert about the five things you should check to keep you and your passengers safe.

First, the battery. Extreme weather hot or cold takes away your battery life, so check the date on the top of your battery and then do the math.

"Typically as it gets closer to four and five years-plus on the battery life, that's when you want to check it,” said Travis Trammel, from Advance Auto Parts.

Next, Trammel says check your wipers. Make sure they're in one piece, and keep them that way with de-icer – which Trammel encourages you to keep in your car at all times.

First, he says, spray it on the windshield. “And first thing in the morning when the ice is on your windshield, turn on your wipers right away. That pulls the rubber off the blade."

Obviously your tire treads matter to keep you safe on slippery roads, but the correct tire pressure matters too. Trammel says it’s easy to see what the proper pressure should be. It’s on the inside door jam.

"It tells your pressure on the front tires, and your pressure on the rear tires as well. Also it lists your spare."

Number four on the list, says Trammel, it is critical to h ave your antifreeze checked by a mechanic.

And the fifth tip is the thing Trammel says most drivers forget: headlights.

Replace your headlight lamps if they start to dim, and always replace them in pairs.