Weather Or Not, Get Your Car Ready Now

Saturday, March 1, 2014

Weather Or Not, Get Your Car Ready Now (NAPSA)—Here’s advice many motorists can warm up to: “An investment of an hour or two to have your vehicle checked is all it takes to have peace of mind and help avoid the cost and hassle of car trouble during’ severe weather,” suggested Rich White, executive director, Car Care Coun- cil. Its “Be Car Care Aware” campaign promotes regular vehicle care, maintenance andrepair. They recommendthesesteps: eIf you’re due for a tune-up, have it done soon. Cold weather magnifies existing problems such as pings, hard starts, sluggish performanceor roughidling. Have the battery and charging system checked for optimum performance. *Clean, flush and put new antifreeze in the cooling system at least every two years. Make sure heaters, defrosters and wipers work properly. Consider winter wiper blades and use cold weather washer fluid. Wiper blades should be replaced every six months. Check the tire tread depth and tire pressure—including the spare. If you'll be driving in snow and ice, consider special tires designed to grip slick roads. Check tire pressure weekly. Have the brakes checked. = Don’t get left out in the cold: Have your car prepared for rough weather. *Have the exhaust system checked for carbon monoxideleaks. See that exterior and interior lights work and headlights are properly aimed. Changethe oil and filter as recommended. Consider “winter weight” oil. Have your technician check the fuel, air and transmission filters at the same time. Keep the gas tank at least half full to decrease the chances of moisture forming and freezing in the gaslines. Stock an emergency kit with ice scraper, snowbrush, jumper cables, flashlight, flares, blanket, matches, bottled water and food. For a free “Car Care Guide” or more information, visit www.car care.org.