Prepare, Get Set, Go Winterize Your Vehicle

Winter season’s just around the corner and chances are your lorry needs some preventive maintenance to get it prepared for the cold weather ahead.

According to AAA, the most frequently exposed problems in its yearly car inspections are inappropriate tire pressure or low or filthy motor oil, anti-freeze, or other automotive fluids.

AAA offers the following suggestions for drivers getting ready for the winter driving season:

Prepare: Before you drive long distances, check the weather conditions along your path. Keep in mind to bring a cellular phone and a winter driving package that consists of a flashlight with fresh batteries, a snow shovel and brush, traction mats, ice scraper, booster cables, a blanket, flares, heavy gloves, window cleaning solvent and a first-aid set.

Ready: Inspect your car completely before leaving your driveway. Ensure that your tires are appropriately pumped up, fluid levels are full, front and rear lights are operating, and belts and hose pipes remain in excellent condition.

Likewise, bear in mind that a person of the most typical reasons for cold-weather breakdowns is a weak or dead battery. Excellent indications that your battery is weak and might need replacement include a starter motor that cranks the engine gradually when the ignition secret is turned or headlights that dim noticeably when the engine speed drops to idle.

If you are uncertain about any element of your vehicle’s condition, visit a AAA Authorized Automobile Repair facility for expert repair and maintenance services.

Go: Now that your automobile has the thumbs-up, here are some winter driving pointers to get you to your location safely.

* When driving in slippery and icy conditions, decrease and keep a safe distance from other vehicles. Reduce your brake usage and bear in mind that traction is biggest right before the wheels spin. Applying gentle pressure on the accelerator pedal when beginning is the very best approach for maintaining traction and avoiding skids.

* The most effective method to stop on ice and snow is to use your brakes carefully, well in advance of the point where you plan to stop. If your automobile has an

antilock braking system, do not pump your brakes; continue to use firm pressure to the brake pedal till your vehicle comes to a complete stop.

* Keep your seatbelt secured and ensure that all guests are safely limited.

* When driving in falling snow or fog, lower your speed, use your low-beam headlights or fog lights and keep a safe distance from lorries in front of you.

* To assist prevent gas line freeze up, keep your gas tank at least half full to lessen condensation.