September Is National Preparedness Month: Are You Prepared for Fall and Cold-Weather Disaster?

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.

Did you know Borcherding Buick GMC Can Inspect Your Car in Just 3 Minutes?

Did you know Borcherding Buick GMC Can Inspect Your Car in Just 3 Minutes?

Have you noticed? We’re renovating our vehicle showroom, adding some exciting new amenities for faster, more convenient service and an even better showroom experience. We’ll be unveiling the new Borcherding in late May. But here’s a sneak peek:

Our service department now offers a special Hawkeye Elite Alignment system. As soon as you pull into our garage, we can tell if your vehicle is in or out of alignment. Four high-resolution cameras provide alignment measurements with pinpoint accuracy.

We also offer a new Quick Check service that will inspect your vehicle in just three minutes, measuring wheels, break force, emissions, battery health, tire pressure, tire health and wheel alignment.

Now that’s a fast service visit. Schedule your service appointment with Borcherding Buick GMC now and don’t forget to ask about offers.

Find out more at: http://www.hunter.com/inspection/qc/index.cfm#

5 Safety Maintenance Musts for Spring

5 Safety Maintenance Musts for Spring

Let’s face it: When we think of spring cleaning, we don’t always include our cars. Even though they work harder for us than anything we own, puttering along dependably on most days, we don’t spend nearly enough time taking care of them.

Unfortunately, that neglect can backfire. In fact, the National Highway Traffic and Safety

Administration estimates that 2,600 deaths occur every year from neglected vehicle maintenance.

And that doesn’t include the less dangerous maintenance slips that can shorten the life of your car, causing a transmission or engine failure that forces you to buy another vehicle, costing you thousands in lost and new payments.

Fortunately, it’s easy to keep your car humming happily without breaking your bank account. All your car needs is a little love, and these top 5 spring maintenance musts:

1.     Batteries, Plugs & Wires: Cold weather in Ohio stresses these car parts and the last thing you need is to lose battery power in the middle of the highway. Make sure all these parts are running smoothly, so you can speed off into the spring sunset without a care in the world.

2.     Fluid Levels: From transmission fluid to refrigerant, make sure your car is getting plenty of fluids. One small problem with engine oil or transmission fluid can ruin a vehicle that was previously in perfect condition. And you don’t want to wait until the first 80 degree day to realize your refrigerant is low and you have no AC.

3.     Brakes: Snow and ice can take a serious toll on brakes. Make sure you give your brake system a full inspection. Even one worn brake pad can make or “break” brake safety.

4.     Check your tire tread. Don’t wait for the first heavy summer rain to discover your tread has been worn by an icy winter.

5.     Windshield Wipers: Get your wipers inspected. Cold temperatures can wipe out blades to the point where they’re no longer effective.

Don’t forget to contact Borcherding’s service department for our spring maintenance specials! (866) 666-7657.