As you are getting ready for winter, there may be one main part of the season that you aren't looking forward to -- driving in the snowy and icy conditions. No matter how accustomed you are to driving in winter weather conditions, it is understandable to be nervous. However, changing a few car parts before these conditions hit can help.

1. Brake Pads

First of all, if you have not had your brake pads inspected or replaced recently, it's a good idea to stop by an auto brake repair service to have your brake pads -- and entire braking system -- looked at. As you probably already know, your braking power can be significantly reduced when there is ice and snow on the road. The last thing that you need to worry about in these conditions is brakes that aren't in good shape already. Having your brakes pads looked at and replaced by an auto brake repair service is smart before doing any wintertime driving.

2. Windshield Wiper Blades

Falling snow can really decrease your visibility when you're driving. Add in ice and snow that are being thrown up on your windshield from other vehicles and salt that can get stuck to your windshield, and you've got a recipe for disaster. It's important to have good-quality wiper blades on your car all year long, but it can be even more important if you are going to be driving in the winter weather. Plus, you should know that scraping through ice, snow and salt can be tough on an old pair of blades, which might not be able to keep up. Luckily, blades for your windshield wipers are affordable and easy to change, so it's totally worth your while to make this improvement.

3. Floor Mats

It's tough not to track ice and snow into your car when you're traipsing through the winter weather. Temporarily replacing your carpeted floor mats with vinyl or rubber floor mats -- particularly those that are made for winter driving or that are designed to combat mud -- can help you protect your flooring when these conditions are unavoidable.

Even though you might not be looking forward to driving in the winter weather, replacing a few parts of your car can be a good idea if you want to be safe and if you want to prevent any winter-related problems. Replace these three parts, and you'll be glad you did when you're dealing with the ice and snow.