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Preparing Your Vehicle for Winter Driving
Preparing your vehicle for winter driving conditions can eliminate preventable breakdowns. Plus, a well-maintained vehicle will have better fuel economy during these times of high fuel prices.
AAA recommends using your owner's manual to learn how to prepare your vehicle for winter driving conditions, because your owner's manual has a detailed maintenance schedule specifically for your vehicle. Before adding any fluids to your vehicle, be sure to verify with your owner's manual all types and concentrations of fluids.
Check the following items on your vehicle:
Batteries and Charging Systems
Recharge or replace weak batteries. Make sure the battery posts are clean of corrosion. Check the battery case for cracks and bulging. If appropriate, check the fluid levels of the battery. Inspect ignition wires, distributor cap and spark plugs for problems. Belts must be tight and free of cracks and glazing.
Engine Oil
Change oil between 3,000 and 7,500 miles depending on the manufacturer's recommendations and driving conditions. Transmission fluid should also be checked.
Lights
Check headlights, side-marker lights, emergency flashers, parking lights, directional signals (front and rear), taillights and brake lights for proper operation.
Brake System
Brakes and brake fluids should be checked and properly adjusted to ensure equal braking.
Tires
Make sure tires are properly inflated and in good condition. Uneven wear indicates improper inflation or the need for a wheel alignment. When tread depth decreases to three-sixteenths of an inch it's time to shop for new tires.
Heating and Cooling System
Check the radiator and hoses for leaks and cracks. Add a sufficient amount of antifreeze if low. If the coolant looks discolored or rusty, flush the radiator and refill it with the right mixture of coolant and water. Test the heater and defroster for proper operation.
Windshield Wipers and Washer
Wipers should be checked for proper functioning. Replace blades if over 6 months old. Fill your washer reservoir bottle with a nonfreezing washer solvent.
Winter Driving Kit
Tire chains, small bag of abrasive material (sand, salt or kitty litter), small snow shovel, snow brush, traction mats, flashlight, ice scraper, cloth or roll of paper towels, booster cables, blanket, hat, gloves, warm clothing, rain coat, first aid kit, food, water, tire gauge and warning devices (flares or triangles).
By taking time to regularly assess the condition of your vehicle, you improve the chances of avoiding a safety or security situation down the road.
