(The original version of this article appears on the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence website.)

Summer vacations are over, the kids are back in school, and cooler evenings have begun. While the fall and winter temperatures in southern California don’t drop too far from our summertime highs, many of the tips below will come in handy if you’ll be driving up north this fall or winter.

First things first: Read your owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedules. There are usually two schedules listed: normal and severe.

Engine Performance

Have engine drivability problems such as hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc. corrected now. Colder weather will make existing problems worse. You should also replace dirty air, fuel, and PCV filters at this time.

Engine Oil

Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual, more often (every 3,000 miles or so) if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent short trips.

Heater / Defroster

The heater and defroster must be in good working condition not only for passenger comfort but for driver visibility.

Cooling System

The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. The cooling system should be flushed and refilled as recommended. A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended. (Always allow a hot radiator to completely cool down before removing the cap.) Also, the tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a certified auto technician.

Windshield Wipers

Replace old wiper blades. And stock up on windshield washer solvent. You’ll be surprised by how much you use.

Battery

The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment, but you can perform basic battery maintenance. Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections, clean all surfaces, and tighten any loose connections. If the battery caps are removable, check the fluid level monthly. (A word of caution: Avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves. The removal of cables can cause damage or loss of data/codes on some newer vehicles, so refer to your owner’s manual for instructions.)

Headlights

Inspect your headlights and other lights, and periodically clean any road grime from the lenses with a moistened cloth or towel. To prevent scratching, never use a dry rag.

Exhaust System

Your vehicle should be placed on a lift and the exhaust system examined for leaks. Exhaust fumes can be deadly so the trunk and floorboards should be inspected for small holes.

Tires

Worn tires are of little use on ice-covered roads, so check your tires for remaining tread, uneven wearing, and cupping. Inspect the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Check the tire pressure at least once a month, but let the tires “cool down” first. And rotate your tires - including your full-sized spare - as recommended.

Emergencies

Carry gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, a flashlight, and a cell phone. And store a few “high-energy” snacks in your glove box.