| |
By Tom Strongman
A little preparation goes a long way in getting your car through winter.
In his book MOSCOW FAREWELL, AUTHOR George Feifer describes a Muscovite who had to let the water out of his radiator each night during the winter to prevent it from freezing; antifreeze was not available and alcohol would deteriorate the hoses, creating an even worse problem.
Every morning he carried hot water in buckets to refill the radiator and warm the engine. Fortunately, our winters don't require us to take such drastic measures. As long as the battery is fresh and the spark plugs are good, most cars will start right up even in the coldest of weather because they have fuel injection and electronic ignition systems.
HELPFUL HINTS
However, prudence is essential, and the following tips, provided by the Car Care Council, will get your car ready for the weather to come.
- Check your battery and charging system. Terminals should be free of corrosion. If the battery is more than three years old, have it load tested or replace it. Since cars utilize so many electronics, a good battery is crucial. Old batteries can lose as much as half their power when accessories are used during cold weather.
- Good tires are essential and be sure to check the pressure. For each 10-degree drop in temperature, tire pressure decreases one pound. Adequate tread depth is needed for traction in snow and rain. To measure the depth, stick a penny into the groove with Lincoln's head first. If you can see all of his head, the tires need to be replaced.
- All-weather tires provide decent grip in light snow, but for optimum traction in northern regions, consider mud and snow tires or special winter tires for all four wheels, such as the Bridgestone Blizzak.
- Check your front-end alignment. Last year's potholes could have knocked the wheels askew. Steering bushings also can be worn.
- Do your windshield wipers streak or chatter? Worn blades skip and smear; however, winter-designed blades will not freeze up when covered with ice.
- Test your antifreeze. It should provide protection down to at least 30 degrees below zero.
- Fill the windshield wiper reservoir with fluid.
- Carry a can of de-icer, which can be used on locks or windows.
- Change the oil and filter. Use 10W-30 weight oil in winter for quicker starts.
TEST YOUR BRAKES
- Inspect your brakes. If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS), as many cars do now, check the warning light to be sure they are working. ABS enables you to steer around hazards without skidding the wheels. To familiarize you with how it works, practice in a deserted parking lot. Put your foot down and steer around a make-believe obstacle. Don't pump. They do it for you.
- Pick up an ice scraper with a brush.
- If you have a rear-wheel-drive car or pickup truck, sandbags in the trunk or bed add weight and improve traction.
- Make up an emergency kit of jumper cables, flashlight, matches, help sign, space blanket, chocolate, shovel and kitty litter for traction.
- Check the exhaust system. Leaks can be deadly.
- Clean and wax the finish. Sand and gravel can nick the paint, leaving a spot that can begin corroding.
When the snow flies and the thermometer drops, having your car ready not only gives you peace of mind, but saves you from having to fight the crowds at your local service facilities.
TOM STRONGMAN is automotive editor of the Kansas City Star.
|
