We all know it's cold, but mechanics say it's a good idea to go out and warm up your car before you head out. Not just for the obvious warmth, but as a benefit to your car as well.

Auto technicians say letting your car idle before driving allows fluids in your engine to warm up. They say your car will run better, but that doesn't mean let your car sit outside for an hour.

Automotive technician Brady Fredrickson has one recommendation.

"Put your foot on the brake and go through your transmission gears slowly. Go from reverse to neutral to drive and back up into park to get the fluid flowing in that. Something I'd recommend to reduce transmission wear."

But remember this…

The city of La Crosse has an ordinance against idling your car in public places. But they say it's only to prevent thefts and they won't ticket you if you are idling in your driveway.

In Eau Claire, police say they'll ticket you if you leave your car running on a public street, alley or parking lot.