Winter car maintenance may be a little extra something to do before the cold weather sets in. But it’s worthwhile and pretty simple with today’s automobiles.

When the snow or cold-weather season comes it can be like driving in another world. Maybe your car doesn’t start, steer, or stop the same way it does during the summer months. Visibility is different, daylight hours are shorter, and ice and snow can blind you with its glare, as windshields become icy or foggy.

Not only are roads different during the winter months with a build-up of ice, slush and snow, but drivers also behave differently. Many are tense and/or unaccustomed to driving in hazardous conditions. Not to mention pre-occupied.

By following this nine-point checklist, your car should be as ready as it can be for the winter blahs:

Battery. Test for a full charge and good condition.Brakes. Check for balance and pad wear, have them adjusted, if necessary.Exhaust system: Check for any leaks.Fluid levels: Make sure all fluids are level: Battery, brake, transmission, etc.Tires: invest in new tires if your car’s tires are low on tread, losing air.Windshield: replace old wipers. This is something all drivers can do. Go to an auto store (Auto Zone, etc.) and they will replace them for you, free of charge if you buy a new pair. Top off the washer reservoir.Oil: change-or have it changed to a lighter, winter oil. Depending on the oil you use, you may want to change to a thinner oil for winter.Lights: Double-check your car’s headlights, brake and back-up lights, as well as turn signals.This may be a good time of year to have your car tuned-up, which generally involves a quick once over by a certified mechanic.

Winter weather can be very hard on your car, especially in terms of performance. Keeping the gas tank full during the colder weather will help it perform better. If you’re driving an older vehicle and have concerns about being stranded or having a no-start, load up your trunk with a flashlight, snow brush, flares, jumper cables and a blanket.

We suspect the car manual is still one of the least read books printed. Many of them are pretty formidable, with over 100 pages and new terms. But it’s worth perusing it to pick up a few hints about keeping your ride in tip-top condition.