Much of North America, we are reminded to winterize our service vehicles.

Here are some key tips:

Cooling System. Engine coolant must be clean with adequate antifreeze protection. Check the engine thermostat to ensure the heater and engine will work properly. Also, check all hoses and replace any over 3 years old, even if they look fine.

Hydraulic Fluid. Frozen hydraulic fluid is a problem in extreme cold temperatures.  It usually occurs because the fluid has become contaminated with moisture from the air, raising its freezing point. Change the fluid annually to prevent this from happening. Check the hydraulic hoses.

Transmission Fluid. Like hydraulic fluid and engine oil, this should be checked for
proper viscosity to flow easily in colder temperatures.

Electrical System. Lighting on long, dark nights, combined with cold starts and heater operation, increase electrical demand. Check starter, alternator and drive belts to ensure your electrical system is up to the task.

Brake System. Check hydraulic brake fluid to make sure it is clean. Change it if it is more than two years or 50,000 miles old. Ensure system components and the parking brake operate freely and safely.

Lights. Short winter days mean you will be working more in the dark. Ensure all of your lights are working correctly; inspect and clean them regularly.

Emergency Kit. Motorists need to have supplies if they get stranded. Be sure to have a working flashlight, ice scraper, water, candy bar, kitty litter, shovel, blanket, fully charged cell phone, etc.

Tires. Make sure tires are inflated, according to your owner’s manual, and have sufficient tread. Take a penny, insert it into the tire tread, and if you see the top of Lincoln’s head, consider replacing your tires.

Windshield Wipers. Don’t use your wipers to clear your windshield of frost - use a
plastic ice scraper or your vehicle’s defrost button. Replace brittle or torn wipers.