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Last Updated: Mar 26th, 2006 - 13:41:45 |
(NAPSI)-One thing that chills many drivers is the thought of car trouble when the temperature is around freezing. Fortunately, there are some simple things car owners can do to help prepare their vehicles. A few easy, preventative car maintenance tasks could potentially save you time, money and inconvenience in the long run.
It is important to make sure that your car is mechanically sound before braving unpredictable weather. The freeze can be a breeze if you follow these simple tips:
• Battery check: Keep an eye on that battery. The output of a healthy battery can drop considerably when the temperature dips near the freezing point. Compounding that, oil can flow less freely in freezing temperatures, which may increase starting resistance.
• Lights: Don't get caught in the dark. Inspect all your car's exterior and interior lights before embarking on a trip.
• Heater/Defrosters: Keep your car warm and dry. Check that the heater and defrosters are working correctly.
• Trunk space: Trunk space is often overlooked. Aside from your spare tire, your trunk should be packed with items that you would need in an emergency, such as an ice scraper, a flashlight, some blankets, water, first-aid kit and food. Have a cell phone and a charger.
• Engine check: Colder weather could freeze or decrease the flow of vital fluids. Try this by following a three-step program recommended by NASCAR legend Richard Petty and his crew chiefs. The "All 3 Every 3" engine maintenance program recommends people do the following three steps every 3,000 miles: 1) Change Your Oil, 2) Clean Your Fuel Injectors, 3) Check Your Belts, Hoses and Fluids.
"Before the temperature gets too cold, you want to make sure that your engine has been thoroughly checked," said Richard Petty. "The All 3 Every 3 program is a good place to start. It is important to change your oil every 3,000 miles. In the same 3,000 miles that your oil gets dirty, however, so do your fuel injectors, so it is important to clean those too. Checking your belts, hoses, and fluids will also help ensure that your car is better prepared for the chill of winter."
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