Now that the weather’s cooling off, your wardrobe isn’t the only thing to reconsider.
Take a close look at your car’s maintenance schedule. Regular maintenance is key to ensure that your car runs reliably all year, but there area few special points to consider as the weather turns frosty.
“After surviving a hot, humid summer, cars and trucks need a thorough inspection to ensure that they remain safe, reliable and fuel efficient especially in light of winter’s weather,” said Ragina C. Averella, Manager of Public and Government Affairs for AAA Mid-Atlantic.
Start by heeding these tips from Ed Kriston and Jeffrey Boone, approved auto repair specialists, Towson Office, AAA-Mid Atlantic, headquartered in Wilmington, Del.
- Keep animals from seeking heat under your car. Put mothballs in netting and hang it under the hood of the car. But be sure to keep the mothballs away from the windshield wiper area of the hood, so the smell doesn’t permeate your car.
- Don’t decrease tire pressure. The old wives’ tale that states that reducing air pressure in tires will increase traction on snow or ice isn’t true. In fact, doing so will seriously damage the tire. Keep tire pressure at the recommended levels.
- Think snow. Most of us dread it, but now’s the time to check state regulations. Some states, such as Pennsylvania, require snow tires (or all weather tires). Keep in mind when you travel that if you ignore these rules and have an accident or breakdown that blocks traffic you could be fined.
- Check the strength of your car battery. Also, have battery fluids checked regularly. The fluids need to cover the battery plates for the battery to perform properly. Best bet: Have a reliable AAA-approved service station check the fluids.
- Turn your heater on to ensure it is operational. If you’re driving and the heater fan stops, put it on maximum, defrost, vent, or air recirculation.
- Don’t drive with fogged windows. Turn your fan to bi-level recirculation and crack the back windows open. This will improve air flow and clear the windows. You can also crack the sunroof for a similar effect.
