This morning I went out to go to work, and had to scrape ice off the windshield.




For those of us in the northern hemisphere, here's a checklist to be prepared.
Check:
- radiator coolant. If it doesn't look green, add some undiluted antifreeze. If you know it's just water, drain it out and put a 50/50 mix in.
- Put non-freezing windshield wiper fluid in
- check air pressure in tires, since temperature affects pressure
- Make sure battery water is up to correct level (cold temps make for harder starting)
- clean battery connections.
- Check your tires to see if any tread is left (you'll need it for the increased rains)
- Check spare tire to make sure it is aired up
- May need to connect the hot air tube on the air cleaner
- May need to adjust choke a bit more "on" for winter (one notch, if car starts more difficultly in winter)

Carry these in your 1200:
- ice scraper (with brush if your'e in snow country). Or get some spray de-icer. Or just cover your windshield with a towel at night
- jumper cables
- first aid kit
- road flares (just in case)
- spare tire, jack, and tire iron
- blanket (in case car breaks down in cold places) and a few snacks
- tire chains, if appropriate for your area. or maybe a small shovel and bag of sand.
- flashlight with new batteries

TIP: for those of you on a budget, one of the wrecking yards here in Seattle gives away free (used) antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid. Maybe some place in your area does too? Just strain through a cloth and put it in. It's better than plain water, which can freeze and destroy your engine.