(NAPSI)—You have a better chance of keeping yourself, your vehicle and your passengers on the road to safety even when the weather is bad if you prepare in advance so your vehicle can be your refuge. These seven tips can help.

Take Inventory Inside

Make sure you know what’s inside your vehicle. See that you have a blanket, first aid kit, current snacks and an inflated spare tire; also, a cell phone charger and some basic tools. All those can be useful if your vehicle leaves you stranded.

Clean and Coat

Your windshield allows you to see what’s coming. Clean the inside thoroughly to remove buildup, smoke and haze. On the outside, use a product such as Invisible Glass Clean & Repel to add a protective coating to help shed rain, snow and ice while increasing visibility.

Inspect the Outside

See that all your lights work, front and rear. Working lights are key to seeing and being seen. They’re not just for looks. Plus, driving with burned-out bulbs can result in a hefty fine.

Checkups Count

Perform regular maintenance, including checking that little oil change sticker on the windshield. Regular maintenance is similar to a checkup. Metal shards in your oil, discolored coolant or an irregular noise can help diagnose something that could go wrong with your ride.

Keep Your Wheels Turning

Your vehicle’s tires and wheels take a beating every time you drive. Brake dust, grease, oil, and road grime can cause permanent damage over time. A simple cleaning can help protect your tires and wheels, prolonging their life. For example, Stoner Wheel Cleaner quickly penetrates deep into hard-to-reach areas, making cleanup fast and easy.

Don’t Pass Gas

If you have the chance to fuel up, take it. On any trip, never let your tank drop below half full. Doing that means you should always have enough gas to get back to where you were.

Charge Your AC

The air conditioner system does more than cool your vehicle. It also removes excess moisture. Fogged windows are a sign that your defrosters may not be able to keep up the pace. Have your mechanic top off your refrigerant.

Learn More

There are many ways to make sure your vehicle is ready for any season. For further tips, visit www.Facebook.com/StonerCarCare and www.stonercarcare.com.