YOU have seen it countless times--stalled cars and their frustrated owners. It's just one of the signs that winter is in full effect, and every year it amazingly takes people by surprise. But you can make sure your car is not among the casualties. The following are tips to help you make sure your car is ready for winter:
CONSIDER SNOW TIRES
If you live in a snowy region, you may want to consider purchasing snow tires. According to the Automobile Association of America (AAA), most cars are equipped with all-season tires, but the tread may not be as strong as that on snow tires. Experts say snow tires have a more aggressive tread, which provides greater traction in snow, sleet and ice.
If you feel you don't need snow tires, you should still have all four tires properly checked. Measuring your tire's tread depth can help you determine if it needs to be replaced. You can purchase a tire's depth gauge at most auto parts stores. Once the tread has reached 1/16th of an inch, the tire is worn and needs to be replaced, according to AAA.
Tires should be rotated, aligned and balanced by a professional to ensure maximum life and performance. It is also important to check your tire pressure because cold weather is known to lower tire pressure.
CHECK YOUR BATTERY AND BRAKES.
We have all heard that the battery is the life of the car. So when it dies, so does your car. Make sure your posts and connections are Dee of corrosion. Most experts suggest you have your battery checked at least once a year. While many batteries are labeled "maintenance free," most are serviceable, according to AAA. One simple way to keep your battery in proper working order is to keep the battery case clean. You can clean dirt and residue by wiping it with moist paper towels and mild detergent.
If your battery has a removable vent cap, you should check electrolyte levels at least once a month. If levels don't rise above the top plates of the battery, you can add distilled water, according to AAA. If you are checking your battery instead of a professional service technician, make sure you follow the safety precautions listed in your owner's manual. Most batteries have a life span of up to three years. If your battery is older, it should be replaced.
GET YOUR CAR TUNED UP AND CHECK YOUR FLUIDS.
With cars being more technologically advanced, one wouldn't think modern vehicles need to be tuned-up, but they do. After every 30,000 miles, you should have a tune-up. The service technician will perform an engine inspection and a computer scan if you have a newer car. Spark plugs or electronic sensors may need to be replaced based on the diagnostic test performed by the technician.
You should make sure you have enough antifreeze to protect your engine. Make sure your oil has been changed--most experts recommend you change it every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.
Always keep at least a half a tank of gas in your car during the winter months. Cold temperatures can freeze gas lines.
INSPECT THE BELTS AND HOSES,
Hoses play a critical part in making your car run smoothly. They carry liquids and gases to different parts of your vehicle. While your engine is still cold, you can manually check your hoses. If a hose is extremely soft, sticky, oil-slicked or so hard that it cracks when squeezed, it needs to be replaced.
You can also check your belts while your engine is cold. Visual signs of wear and tear include cracking, chunking and glazing. If you hear chirping, squealing or slapping noises, it may be a sign that one of your belts needs to be replaced.
CHECK YOUR LIGHTING SYSTEM.
All your lights should be in full working order, not just headlights and taillights. Any license, parking and side-marker lights should be checked to make sure they are working properly. If bulbs need to be replaced, you can purchase tools needed to replace them at most auto parts stores.
INSPECT THE WIPERS AND WIPER FLUID.
According to experts, wiper blades should be replaced twice a year. You should check periodically to make sure they are not worn. During the winter months, it is important to purchase no-freeze windshield washer fluid. Make sure that you have plenty of fluid in the washer reservoir as well as an extra bottle in your trunk.
PREPARE A SURVIVAL KIT.
You should have a winter survival kit in you car. While you can make sure your car is functioning properly and ready for the winter, things do happen and it is better to be prepared. In addition to your survival kit, you should also have any necessary medication as well as a diaper bag if you have children.
DRIVE SAFELY.
Always remember that once seasons change, road conditions change and so should your driving. Allow yourself enough time to make it to your given destination. You have to exercise caution when traveling on slick, wet, snowy roads. AAA suggests you increase your following distance in case you have to stop suddenly. In addition, clear snow and ice from the entire car.
WINTER SURVIVAL KIT
* Fully charged cell phone
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Publishing: Nov, 2005
Article Source: www.findarticles.com
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