Oil : Switch to synthetic — when temperatures drop , it won ’ t thicken up like conventional oil , allowing it to flow better to reduce engine wear during winter .

Wipers and fluid : Replace worn-out blades . Top up with wintergrade washer fluid — it won ’ t freeze in the reservoir and damage hoses during below-zero temps .

Belts and hOses : Visually inspect them for cracks , bulges and leaks , which can occur from temperature fluctuations . If you spot a problem , get your technician to take a look .

Battery : Cold conditions can weaken it and cause it to fail . In Brandon and Winnipeg , CAA Battery Service will test your battery on the spot to make sure you ’ re all charged up .

• For tune-ups and repairs , get 3 % back in CAA Dollars at select AARS rewards partners ( max . 50 CAA Dollars )

• Cracked windshield ? Earn 3 % in CAA Dollars at Deco locations across Manitoba ( max . 50 CAA Dollars )

• Switch to synthetic — save $ 6 on a Great Canadian Oil Change ( in Brandon and Portage la Prairie )

Battery tender : When leaving your vehicle parked for an extended period , a tender will keep it charged at the proper storage voltage . Get one at shop . caamanitoba . com , CAA Manitoba service centres or through CAA Battery Service .

Winter tires : Rubber designed specifically for snowy and icy conditions will perform better than all-seasons . With their deep tread design , winter tires provide up to 50 percent better traction on cold , wet , icy or frosty roads .

BlOck heater : Check it with a block-heater tester before icy conditions and frigid temperatures set in . Make sure you don ’ t have any cracks or tears in the cord , heater or outlet .

prO check-up : Get a seasonal checkup with an automotive pro . CAA Approved Auto Repair Services ( AARS ) facilities offer complete inspections by trained auto techs . And all work is backed by a 12-month or 20,000-km warranty . caamanitoba . com / AARS

• Make sure belts , hoses and wipers are good to go : Save 10 % on NApA parts and accessories

• When storing winter tires , save 10 % and earn 10 CAA Dollars on your first season of storage at Tire Chalet

caamanitoba . com / rewards

Be Prepared

Get a CAA Manitoba deluxe roadside emergency kit at your local CAA service centre or online : shop . caamanitoba . com

Member price : $ 61.99

Decrease your chance of distress by storing a roadside emergency kit in your trunk . Keep it stocked with these and other essential items

A compact bag to carry it all

Tire pressure gauge

Whistle

Flashlight ( batteries included )

Emergency drinking water

Waxbased marking flare