Winter Car Care Tips
 

Protect your car from winter weather
The colder months of the year can take their toll on your car, especially if you live up north or in the Midwest. But a few simple preventative measures will keep your car looking good and protect it from the ice and slush. Your car will thank you and you'll thank yourself when you get ready to sell it.
 
Here are items to check and winterize before the end of fall to keep you and your car safe while in the cold:
 
1. Cooling System/Radiator
 
2. Fuel Systems
 
3. Tires
 
4. Regular Car Washes
   
  A. Remove Excess Snow From Lights and Windows (This helps keep rust from forming and increases visibility for you and other motorists)
 
5. Brakes
 
6. Battery (It is important that you make sure that you battery is working properly as in colder weather the battery life and power will diminish)
 
7. Windshields
   
  A. Use Winterized Washer Fluids
   
  B. Make Sure There are No cracks that Will Grow During Winter Months
   
  B. Check Wipers (Are they leaving streaks?)
   
8. Get Regularly Scheduled Oil Changes
 
  A. Be Sure to Use a "Winterized" Oil
 
9. Exhaust System (Cracks and leaks can be deadly in the winter time, Carbon Monoxide is a silent killer!)
 
10. Winter Survival Kit
  A. Tools (Have enough tools on hand to perform emergency repairs)
   
  B. First Aid Kit
 
  C. Warm Blankets
 
  D. Warm Clothing
    I. Parka IV. Socks
    II. Boots V. Mittens (Warmer than gloves)
    III. Long Underwear VI. Ski Mask
       
  E. Source of Heat
    I. Many Wick Candle III. Matches (Some lighters do not work in cold weather)
    II. Can Heater  
       
  F. Water
   
  G. Metal Container for Melting Snow (Drinking water)
       
  H. Radio
       
  I. Flashlight
    I. Extra Batteries  
       
  K. Food
    I. Hard Candy V. Candy Bars
    II. Jelly Beans VI. Dehydrated Fruit
    III. Raisins VII. Jerky
    IV. Nuts  
   
  L. Something to Read (To keep you awake while you wait for help)
   
  M. Folding Cup
   
  N. Toilet Tissue
   
  O. Red/Orange Cloth (To flag down help)
       
  P. Whistle
   
  Q. Nylon Rope
   
(Note: In emergency situations it is generally better to be over prepared than to risk the safety of yourself or others)
 
Car Care Tips
 

The technology in today's vehicles has become so sophisticated, many drivers are unaware of how their vehicle's systems actually work. Although it is not important for drivers to completely understand these systems, it is important to have a basic understanding of the systems and components that have the greatest impact on safety, dependability and performance. Regular maintenance is the key to continued performance and safety, as well as protection from costly repairs.

Below is a list of some of the important systems you should have serviced and inspected on a regular basis. Always refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for detailed recommended service intervals.

Brakes: Obviously, brakes are an important safety device. You should have your brakes inspected as part of your routine service. Any sign of poor braking performance should be addressed immediately.

Cooling System: Have your cooling system checked as part of your maintenance program. Problems with your cooling system could lead to excessive engine wear. If cooling system problems are not addressed, it will lead to expensive repairs.

Emission Control Systems: The emission control system is currently being examined by the Drive Clean Program. A malfunctioning emission control system can also lead to poor fuel economy and performance.

Filters: All the filters on your vehicle should be replaced as part of a regular service regimen. Air and fuel filters should be examined on a regular basis and changed as required.

Fluids: Oil should be changed every 5000 km or 3 months, which ever comes first. You should also check engine coolant, transmission and power steering fluid, as well as brake fluid.

Suspension: Your suspension system not only absorbs bumps, but also ensures proper tire-to-road contact. Worn suspension components compromise steering control and may lead to premature tire wear.

Tires: Tire pressure should be checked regularly. Proper tire inflation is not only a fundamental component of safe driving, but also ensures optimum tire life. Damaged tires should be replaced immediately.

Spark Plugs: It is essential to replace spark plugs in accordance to the intervals specified in your owner's manual. Worn spark plugs will result in poor engine performance and may cause excessive emission outputs.

Windshield Wipers and Lights: Inspect your windshield wipers regularly. Worn windshield wiper blades will cause streaking that can impair visibility. Periodically walk around your vehicle to ensure all lights are working. This includes brake, tail, signal and headlights.

The key to owning a reliable and safe operating vehicle is regular maintenance. The minor expense associated with regular service is by far, money well spent. A lack of maintenance will almost always ensure costly break downs. If you notice any problems with your vehicle, have a professional examine it. Small problems caught in time, could eliminate major and expense repairs.