Winter is in full swing, which means drivers need to take extra precautions to keep their cars in good condition to stay safe on the road. There are many ways to winterize a car, including switching to snow tires and getting a tune-up. Here are three things you can do at home to protect yourself and your vehicle this winter.

1. Keep an eye on coolant
When the temperatures dip below freezing, the antifreeze in your car’s cooling system prevents the liquid from freezing in the pipes. If the fluid level is low, add more, but remember you need to use a mixture that is equal parts water and antifreeze. You can purchase premixed solutions, so you don’t have to worry about getting the measurements right.

2. Check your windshield wipers
Whether it’s snowing or raining, visibility is a crucial part of safe driving. In addition to making sure you have plenty of windshield washer fluid, you’ll need wipers that can effectively clean the glass. Examine the wipers currently on your car. If they are stiff or ripped, replace them. This is typically inexpensive and easy to do yourself.

3. Keep an emergency kit in your car
If your vehicle should happen to break down, you will be glad you thought ahead and prepared an emergency kit. This should include spare coats or security blankets so you can keep warm while you wait for help as well as flashlights, spare batteries and some extra cash. You might want to throw a few jugs of water into the car as well. If the engine overheats, you can add water to the radiator to get the car running again.

Drivers who need to buy used cars will find a wide selection of makes and models at New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer also has a garage, the Total Car Care Center, that is open to the public and can help drivers address any automotive concerns this winter.