2009-12-10 22:33:39 -
Miles Auto Service Offers Tips for Staying Safe This Winter
TURNERSVILLE, N.J., Dec. 10, 2009 – It’s that time of the year when driving becomes more hazardous, and extreme weather can take its toll on your vehicle. Taking all the right steps before hitting the road will save you from aggravation, inconvenience and even dangerous situations this winter.
According to Fred White, owner of Miles Auto Service, an auto repair shop in Turnersville, simple preventive measures will not only keep you safe and your car humming during severe weather, but will pay off the rest of the year through longer vehicle life and fewer repair bills, especially if your car is a little bit older.
“There are easy things to do – some of which you can do yourself – to ensure
a safe winter of driving,” says White, who’s been doing car repair in South Jersey for 18 years. “But if you ignore your vehicle’s maintenance, you’re driving at your own risk.”
Miles Auto Service advises you to address the following to winterize your car, at the bare minimum:
- Coolant. A full reservoir of fresh coolant will keep the engine from freezing, and prevent cracking of the engine block. It also coats the inside of the engine to prevent rusting and lubricates the water pump. Coolant must be changed every four years, and every two years on older cars (built prior to 1997) to maintain its properties. A coolant flush is inexpensive compared to the cost of a new water pump due to coolant brake down.
- Battery. The battery should be tested every two years; it may not show signs of weakness until it’s too late, and the cold will reveal problems faster. If left too long, a weak battery may take out the alternator.
- Tires. Check for proper inflation and tread depth. “This might be common sense, but many cars come in with low tire pressure,” says White. Improper tire pressure will quickly wear out tires, and cause poor handling and poor traction in inclement weather.
- Defroster. The defroster works with the air conditioner as a dehumidifier to clear the window. Both the defroster and cabin filter should be checked because low air flow to the defroster will slow performance, resulting in poor visibility.
- Exhaust system. Any exhaust system leaks may enter the car if it’s not properly vented at the rear. You can’t smell carbon monoxide as it builds up in a closed car, but it can kill you.
- Belts. Most cars have one belt and if it fails you can lose many systems. Check the belt for tension, cracks and fraying.
Finally have your car checked by a professional auto repair shop.
“These six areas are just the tip of the iceberg,” says White. “Your car is a complex machine composed of several interconnected systems that work together to provide you with safe transportation.”
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