September Is National Preparedness Month:
Are You Prepared for Fall and Cold-Weather Disaster?
Maintenance is everything when it comes
to safety. Did you know that 1 in 8 crashes can be attributed to mechanical
defects due to neglected vehicle maintenance, according to the National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration?
Even though our cars can’t talk to us when something is wrong, they do
make plenty of sounds that indicate major problems. For instance, that thumping
sound that increases with acceleration could be a tire problem that leads to a
blowout. And a high-pitched squeal that stops when you put
on the breaks may mean your breaks are ready to give out.
All
the more reason to get your full-service fall maintenance check. The National
Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) recommends the following
checklist for fall. But above all, be sure to read your owner’s manual and
follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedules.
· Check
Engine Performance—Cold
weather makes existing drivability problems, such as idling, worse.
· Check
Fuel—Fuel de-icer
in your tank once a month helps prevent fuel-line freezing.
· Check
Oil—It’s
vital to follow the maintenance schedule for service to your brakes, tires,
battery and other systems.
· Check Cooling
System—Always
keep a 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water.
· Check Heater/Defroster—As
the weather turns colder, both are critical for comfort and visibility.
· Check Windshield Wipers—As
the weather becomes harsher, be sure your wipers are ready to endure the first
frost.
· Check Battery—A battery older than four years old may not work
well in cold weather.
· Check Lights—As the weather gets rougher, make sure tail lights
and signal lights are clean and accurately aimed for optimal visibility.
· Check Tires—Tire
pressure becomes even more critical in cold weather. As the weather gets cooler,
your air pressure decreases. And too much pressure can reduce traction on
ice.
· Check Transmission--Don’t
wait to check the fluid until a major failure. Small maintenance prevents large
repair costs down the line.
· Carry
an Emergency Kit—Gloves, boots, blankets, flares, tire chains,
flashlight, and a cell phone. Plus some snacks in case you get stranded.
Stop
into Borcherding and we’ll get you ready for fall! Your safety is our primary
concern. It’s a great feeling to get behind the wheel and know that everything
has been inspected, and you and your family are going to make it home safely.
