Winter has arrived and chances are your automobile requires some preventive upkeep to keep it in tip top shape for the remainder of the season.
According to AAA, the most often uncovered issues in its annual vehicle assessments are inappropriate tire pressure, unclean or low motor oil, anti-freeze, and other automobile fluids.
AAA offers the following advice to drivers preparing for the winter driving season:
Get ready: Before you drive long distances, check the weather conditions along your route. Remember to bring a cellphone and a winter season driving kit that includes a flashlight with fresh batteries, a snow shovel and brush, traction mats, ice scraper, booster cables, a blanket, flares, heavy gloves, window washing solvent and a first-aid kit.
Get set: Inspect your vehicle thoroughly before leaving your driveway. Make sure that your tires are properly pumped up, fluid levels are full, front and rear lights are running, and belts and hoses are in great condition.
Keep in mind that one of the most typical causes of cold-weather breakdowns is a dead or weak battery. Good indications that your battery is weak and may require replacement consist of a starter motor that cranks the engine gradually when the ignition is turned or headlights that dim noticeably when the engine speed drops to idle.
Check out a Bertera Service Center for specialist maintenance and repair services if you are not sure about any element of your automobile’s condition.
Go: Now that your automobile has the thumbs-up, here are some winter season driving tips to get you to your location safely.
• When driving in slippery and icy conditions, decrease and keep a safe distance from other automobiles. Reduce your brake use and keep in mind that traction is biggest just before the wheels spin. Using gentle pressure on the accelerator pedal when beginning is the very best method for retaining traction and avoiding skids.
• The most efficient way to stop on ice and snow is to use your brakes gently, well in advance of the point where you intend to stop. If your automobile has anti-lock braking system (ABS), do not pump your brakes; continue to apply firm pressure to the brake pedal till your car comes to a complete stop.
Note: Notice in the video above how the vehicle without ABS stopped in a shorter distance but couldn’t control the vehicle, whereas the vehicle with ABS took a little longer to stop but remained in control the entire time.
• Keep your seat belt secured and ensure that all passengers are secured within the vehicle.
• When driving in falling snow or fog, lower your speed, use your low-beam headlights or fog lights and keep a safe distance from vehicles in front of you.
• To help avoid gas line freeze up, keep your gas tank at least half complete to reduce condensation. You may also want to consider using dry gas this winter to prevent any water from freezing your gas line.
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Source(s): AAA.com
