“Now is the time to look after your car or PU before the Winter weather takes effect”— Paul Ebeling
Follow these tips, and you will stay on the road and off the side of it.
Check
√ Lights – Headlights, taillights, turn signals, reverse lights and horn.
√ Tire Wear – Not just the tread but also any sign of uneven wear. That may mean you have a suspension or alignment problem.
√ Leaks – Check under the hood and where you park your car for any signs of leaks. These should be repaired as soon as you notice them.
√ Fluids – Check the 9 vehicle fluids, including power steering, brake, transmission fluid, engine oil, antifreeze and filters.
√ Air Filter – Change air filters every 12,000 miles or every 6 months. This will give you better fuel economy and performance.
√ Battery – If you are having trouble starting your car, it may be the battery. Have it checked. Cold temps are hard on a fully charged battery, but they can prevent a weak one from even starting. If your battery is 4 yrs old or older, have it tested.
√ Tire Pressure – check for the proper pressures against the door placard.
√ Brakes – Have your brakes checked, if you need new brake pads now is the time to get them
Change
√ Winter Wiper Blades – the protective sleeve will help keep the blade on your windshield. Replace blades every 6 months.
√ Winter Washer Fluid- de-icer washer fluid will make your life easier on those real bad days.
√ Snow tires – even if you have a 4WD vehicle, Winter tires are your safest way to travel in bad weather. They are designed for cold weather driving. All season tires do not offer the best traction in the snow. Worn tires can be even more dangerous with Winter weather, switching to an all season tire will ensure the safety of you and your family.
Carry
Carry these items in your trunk in a box or duffel bag.
- Jumper cables – or jump box
- Tire chains – required in mountainous areas
- Flashlight
- Tire inflatation product
- First aid kit
- LED Light Source and safety triangle
- Protein bars or food
- Bottled water
- Snow brush with ice scraper
- Blanket for every passenger
- Hand and feet warmers
- Cell phone charging cable
- Paper towels and glass cleaner
- Extra washer fluid
- Work Gloves, duct tape, zip ties and basic tools
Clean
√ Clean your vehicle at least once a wk
√ Windshields, back window and side windows, headlights and taillights.
√ Remove snow from the top and hood of your car.
Have a prosperous, Happy Christmas Holiday Week, Keep the Faith!
