Although car owners may maintain their vehicles to reduce fuel costs, winter driving is safer if they are well maintained. While a summer breakdown can be annoying, mechanical problems on icy roads could prove fatal.
The experts from the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence offer the following checklist for winter safety:
– Always read your owner’s manual. Follow the service schedules.
Repair shop: Engine driveability problems such as rough idling, hard starts and stalling can be fixed at a reliable repair shop. Cold weather can make existing problems even worse.
You should replace all dirty filters including fuel, oil, and PCV filters. If your driving involves frequent stops and go or is a lot of stop-and-go, you should change your oil and oil filter according to your manual.
As recommended, flush and recharge your cooling system. You should check the coolant’s level, condition, concentration and levels periodically. The radiator cap should not be removed until the engine is completely cooled.
Let the professionals handle some of your tasks. A certified technician can check the condition of drive belts and clamps. To prove their competence, ASE-certified technicians must pass stringent tests and are proud to wear the blue-and-white ASE shoulder emblem. For more information, please visit www.ase.com.
Ensure that the heater and defroster remain in good condition. Failing heating systems can cause passengers to be cold. A broken defroster can reduce visibility and lead to serious injury.
– Hire a technician to check your battery. Only professionals can detect weak batteries. When cleaning off corrosion, wear eye protection and rubber gloves.
Tires that are worn out can slip, making it more likely for vehicles to skid. You should inspect your tires for signs of wear and cupping. Finally, you should check the sidewalls to see if there are any cuts or nicks.
Tire pressure should be checked once per month. Let the tires air out “cool down”Before you check the pressure. Rotate your jack according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Rotate as recommended.
– Check your vehicle’s exhaust for leaks. Small holes should be found in the trunk and floorboards. Exhaust fumes may be dangerous.
You should always have a blanket, shovel and flares with you. Keep your cell phone handy.
