End of Summer Marks Perfect Time for Car Care
Preventive maintenance now can help ensure worry-free driving this winter
The vacations are over, the kids are back in school and cooler evenings have begun.
Take advantage of the lull to prepare your vehicle for the winter ahead, advise
the pros and the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence
(ASE). Breakdowns, never convenient, can be dangerous in cold weather. The following
tips from ASE should give parent and student alike a road map to fall car care.
First things first - Read your owner's manual and follow the manufacturer's
recommended service schedules. There are usually two schedules listed: normal and
severe.
Engine Performance - Have engine driveability problems (hard starts, rough
idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a good repair shop. Cold
weather will make existing problems worse. Replace dirty filters-air, fuel, PCV,
etc.
Fuel - Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help keep
moisture from freezing in the fuel line. Note, too, that a gas tank that's kept
filled helps prevent moisture from forming in the first place.
Oil - Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual-more often
(every 3,000 miles or so) if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent
short trips.
Cooling System - The cooling system should be flushed and refilled as recommended.
The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically.
(A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended.) If you're doing your
own work, allow the radiator to cool down completely before removing the cap. (Newer
vehicles have coolant reservoirs.) The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps,
and hoses should be checked by a certified auto technician.
Heater/Defroster - The heater and defroster must be in good working condition
for passenger comfort and driver visibility.
Windshield Wipers - Replace old blades. If your climate is harsh, purchase
rubber-clad (winter) blades to fight ice build-up. Stock up on windshield washer
solvent-you’ll be surprised how much you use. Carry an ice-scraper.
Battery - The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional
equipment. But do-it-yourselfers can do routine maintenance. Scrape away corrosion
from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections.
If battery caps are removable, check fluid level monthly.
A word of caution: Be sure to avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery
acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves. Note too that removal of cables can
cause damage or loss of data/codes on some newer vehicles so refer to your manual
for instructions.
Lights - Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically
clean road grime from all lenses with a moistened cloth or towel. To prevent scratching,
never use a dry rag.
Exhaust System - Your vehicle should be placed on a lift and the exhaust
system examined for leaks. The trunk and floorboards should be inspected for small
holes. Exhaust fumes can be deadly.
Tires - Worn tires will be of little use in winter weather. Examine tires
for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts
and nicks. Check tire pressure once a month. Let the tires "cool down" before checking
the pressure. Rotate as recommended. Don't forget your spare, and be sure the jack
is in good condition.
Emergencies - Carry gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand
or kitty litter, tire chains, a flashlight, and a cell phone. Put a few "high-energy"
snacks in your glove box.
Article from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.