If you're planning a move from one of the sunny southern states of the country, to one of the colder northern states, you'll need to make a lot of adjustments. This is particularly true if you've never lived in the cold weather states. One thing that you might not have thought about is your car. If you're going to be bringing your warm-weather car with you, it's going to need some adjustments to get it ready for the temperature changes. Here are four suggestions that will help your car transition from a warm-weather car to a cold-weather car.

Invest in Snow Tires

If you've got warm-weather tires on your car, they're fine for the sunny climates. However, if your car is heading into its first freezing winter, you should invest in snow tires. Snow tires will give you the traction you need to trek through the snow-covered streets of your new town. Snow tires will also help you avoid the hassle of installing snow chains each time it snows.

Get an Oil Change

If your car has always had its oil changes in the warmer climates, you'll need to an oil change before winter arrives. Cars that are driven in warmer climates require thicker oil to protect the engine parts from heat damage. Unfortunately, those thicker oils will gunk up your engine during those cold winter months. To prevent engine troubles with your car, be sure to get your oil changed.

Have Your Battery Tested

If your battery has never had to crank over in the middle of a freezing winter, it might not be able to adjust to the changes. Before you're stuck in the snow with a dead battery, you should have it tested. If your battery doesn't have enough charging amps to make it through the winter, it's time to invest in a new one. Be sure to choose one that's designed for cold-weather operation.

Check Your Belts and Hoses

If your car has been driven in extreme heat, especially the desert regions of the US, you should inspect its belts and hoses before the freezing temperatures set in this winter. Extreme heat can wreak havoc on belts and hoses. In fact, the heat can cause your belts and hoses to crack and become brittle. Unfortunately, once the temperatures turn frigid, your belts and hoses could deteriorate under the pressure. To prevent serious problems this winter, be sure to have your belts and hoses inspected for damage. If they show signs of heat damage, you should have them replaced as soon as possible.

Now that your car is going to be driven in snowy winter conditions, use the tips provided here to get it ready for the changes.