Pep Boys Offers Tips to Help Motorists Drive Safely This Winter
PHILADELPHIA--Dec. 1, 20059, 2005--The Pep Boys - Manny, Moe & Jack , the nation's leading automotive aftermarket retail and service chain, reminds motorists to be ready for the winter season, which officially begins on December 21. Because winter driving conditions can take a toll on your car, affecting performance and safe operation, be sure to schedule preventive maintenance services for your vehicle to get set for winter."One of the most important things motorists can do to combat common vehicle troubles during snow and frigid temperatures is to ensure that their vehicles are performing properly," notes Pep Boys' Senior Vice President of Service Joe Cirelli. "Consumers should have their vehicle's tires, batteries, fluids, lights and wipers checked to prepare for winter driving. Catching a small problem early can prevent larger, more expensive problems in the future."
Visit your local Pep Boys store for a wide variety of automotive products and accessories, as well as dealer-quality service at affordable prices. Log onto pepboys.com to find a store near you and to learn about Pep Boys' convenient towing services.
Here's a checklist of things you can do to stay ahead of the winter
weather:
1. Ice scrapers and snowbrushes should be kept in the house if an
overnight storm is predicted so that snow and ice can be removed
without having to open the car. Keep a spare ice scraper inside
the car as well.
2. Window and lock de-icer should also be kept in the house. Keeping
additional de-icers at work is also a good idea.
3. Windshield wiper blades should clear the windshield without
smearing or streaking. Replace the blades if, after cleaning the
edges, they still do not clear the windshield. Specialized winter
weather blades prevent snow from freezing the blade's mechanism,
and are best when you anticipate driving in snow and icy weather.
4. Washer fluid should be topped-off frequently; don't wait until you
run out of fluid and the windshield is covered with salt or sandy
residue. Run the defroster with the heat to keep the fluid from
freezing on the windshield in cold temperatures.
5. Keep your inside window surfaces clean; this reduces surface fog
formation and speeds up the defogging process. Your air
conditioning system typically works with your defroster and heater
to dehumidify your car's cabin for quicker defogging of all
windows. Have your professional service shop check your A/C and
heating systems to ensure proper operation.
6. Engine coolant (or antifreeze) must be tested to ensure freeze
protection to at least -30 degrees Fahrenheit. If the fluid has a
rusty appearance or has been in the system for more than two years
(always refer to your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations for
service intervals), change the antifreeze to restore the freeze
protection, rust inhibitors and water pump lubricant. A
professional coolant flush will not only renew these important
features, but will also help to remove any harmful materials that
could cause premature water pump failure. While inspecting your
cooling system, check the belts and hoses for any fraying or
cracking and replace as necessary.
7. Engine oil should always be changed according to manufacturer's
recommended intervals. If you drive in extremely cold climates,
dusty areas, or operate a towing trailer, you may want to consider
changing your oil as often as every 3,000 miles. As winter
approaches, the oil's viscosity (thickness) is very important. Oil
that does not have multiple weights in its viscosity rating (e.g.
5W-30) might make the engine crank too slow to start. Check your
vehicle owner's manual for the recommended viscosity and type of
oil for the coldest temperature expected in your region. For the
ultimate protection, consider synthetic oil and a premium filter
for your next oil change.
8. Automotive transmission fluid should register full on the dipstick
with the engine running. Any signs of leaking or a brown, burnt
appearance may require professional assistance. Transmissions are
under a lot of strain in the winter, particularly if a vehicle
gets stuck in the snow. If the manufacturer's recommended
transmission fluid change is near, schedule the service as a
preventive measure.
9. Lights, including high beams, turn signals, brake lights and
license plate bulbs must be in working condition with headlights
aimed correctly. Check all bulbs for broken filaments or any other
visible damage. Keep the lights clean for maximum visibility.
10. Pep Boys recommends that consumers replace their tires before the
tread depth reaches 2/32". In areas subject to winter
precipitation, Pep Boys recommends a tread depth of at least 5/32"
to safely and effectively navigate snow and ice-covered roads. An
easy way to check if your tires are in need of replacement is a
simple "penny test." Stick a penny upright in the tread. If you
can still see the top of Lincoln's head, then the tire should be
changed. If the tread is wearing differently between the edges and
the middle tread, check the tire pressure; over- or
under-inflation adversely affects a tire's wear patterns and
performance. If one side is wearing more than the other, it may be
time for a wheel alignment. Tire chains can be helpful in deep
snow conditions; check local ordinances regarding their use.
11. Brakes should be inspected at least twice a year, sooner if you
have concerns with their operation. The best times are just before
winter and summer to prevent problems in extreme temperatures.
12. Have the exhaust system inspected before winter. Exhaust system
leaks can be lethal if you are stuck on ice or snow and the engine
is running.
13. Car batteries should be tested before winter sets in. If your
battery is more than four years old, you may want to consider
replacing it. The terminals and the charging and starting systems
should also be inspected, cleaned and deemed corrosion-free. Rear
window defoggers, lights and plug-in travel accessories put a
drain on your charging and starting systems, particularly during
winter.
14. Tune up your engine periodically, particularly if it is not
running perfectly. Otherwise, it will be harder to start during
the winter. Have any problems diagnosed and repaired before the
onset of winter.
15. Keep an emergency kit in your trunk at all times. It should
include battery jumper cables, a flashlight, matches and a "Help"
sign. In colder climates, include a candle, winter blanket,
high-energy snacks, shovel and kitty litter or sand for traction.
Always travel with a cell phone in case of emergencies.
About Pep Boys
Pep Boys has 593 stores and over 6,000 service bays in 36 states and Puerto Rico. Along with its vehicle repair and maintenance capabilities, the Company also serves the commercial auto parts delivery market and is one of the leading sellers of replacement tires in the United States. Customers can find the nearest location by calling 1-800-PEP-BOYS or by visiting pepboys.com.
Editor's note: Pep Boys experts are available for interviews and demonstrations.