OCR Text |
Show Fall CAR CARE, 2012 Page 5 Winter From page 3 -- Jumper cables -- An ice scraper, snow brush and folding shovel -- A flashlight with fresh batteries -- A blanket, hand warmers, extra clothing -including heavy gloves, a hat, socks and boots -- and a rain poncho -- Candles and safety matches -- Bottled water and high-energy dried food snacks -- A first aid kit -- Flares, a whistle and tow rope -- Plastic garbage bags, hose bandage, tire sealant and small tools -- including pliers, screwdrivers and a utility knife. Make sure you have plenty of window washer solvent, too. If you're going on a long trip or regularly do a lot of distance driving -- especially on less-traveled roads -- you should double up on the snacks, water, blankets and clothing, and be sure to take extra prescription medication in case you face an extended wait for help. Every vehicle should stash two inexpensive plastic "Call Police" or "Call Tow" emergency banners in the glove compartment. They can be placed in the front and rear windows to alert other drivers to your plight. * Check up: Now is also the time to look at all things mechanical and structural on your car -- including the heater, defroster, interior lights, headlights, belts, the exhaust system and the battery and charging system. Have your car put on a lift so that a technician can inspect the trunk and floorboards. They should watch out for small holes that create a pathway for deadly carbon monoxide fumes to enter the passenger compartment. "Also check to see if your spark plugs and battery need replacing. You don't want to have a stalled vehicle in the dead of winter," advises a "Preparing For Winter" online advisory from Mr. Lube Canada at mrlube.com, the Canadian chain of franchised auto service centers. "If your battery is more than two years old, take it to your technician to have the charging system completely checked. Older batteries are less likely to start in winter temperatures than newer ones." Since cold weather magnifies existing performance problems, you should take the time now to eyeball fuel, air and transmission filters -- or, even better, get a complete tune-up. An inspection of brakes and tires should also be on your must-do list. It's also a good time to have the car waxed to protect the finish from the elements. If you live in an area subject to sub-zero weather or heavy snow and ice, switch to lighter motor oil for easier start-ups and less wear and tear on the engine. You may also want to replace your regular wipers with a rubber-clad winter version that prevents the snow Adam and ice from clogging the blades. While all-weather tires work well in any climate, if your streets are filled with ice and snow, shift to studded snow tires. — Vicky Katz Whitaker, Creators Syndicate Important to keep your fluids up In Oct. 2005, the Car Care Council held a voluntary inspection campaign for motorists in conjunction with their Fall Car Care month. Many participating vehicles failed basic maintenance goals. Here's a look at the results: Lubricants and fluids Failure rate* Engine oil 30% Transmission fluid 26% Brake fluid 23% Power steering fluid 21% Coolant (flush) 20% Washer fluid 1=18% Coolant (low surge tank) 16% 11% Coolant (low radiator) Coolant (leaks) I. 8% *Failure = low, overfull, dirty, contaminated and/or burnt fluids ■ Low fluid levels can affect the safe driving performance of the vehicle and damage internal parts if not properly maintained. ■ The cooling system protects against damage by keeping the engine operating within its correct temperature ranges. SOURCE: Car Care Council Copley News Service / Paul Horn Collision Repair Over 30 Years Experience in Cache Valley - Computerized Laser Frame Repair - "Largest Nova Verta Paint Booth In Northern Utah" • Chief Frame Equipment • Competitive Prices • Free Estimates (Computerized) www.jcautoinc.com 1500 N. 600 West • LOGAN |