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AAA Reminds Motorists to Ready Vehicles for Winter

10 November 1998

AAA Reminds Motorists to Ready Vehicles for Winter

    SAN FRANCISCO--Nov. 10, 1998--While technology has greatly improved vehicle quality and reliability, AAA warns motorists against viewing their cars as maintenance free -- especially with winter approaching.
    "Today's cars are mechanically better than their counterparts of a generation ago," said AAA spokesman Paul Moreno. "But winter can be hard on a vehicle. A few precautions can help keep you from being left out in the cold from vehicle failure, and may extend the life of your auto."
    AAA's automotive diagnostic technicians urge drivers to make sure their vehicles are able to withstand the rigors of cold weather. Among the key items to check are:

--   Battery -- Frigid temperatures can reduce battery power by as
     much as half. A battery which barely turns over an engine in the
     fall is likely to fail during winter. If your vehicle battery is
     older than three years, have it tested. Also, make sure the posts
     and connections are free of corrosion.
--   Oil -- Dirty oil makes it harder for the engine to turn over,
     especially in cold weather, and results in premature engine wear.
     Check you owner's manual for recommended oil change frequency and
     the appropriate grade of oil for your area's winter temperatures.
     At the same time, check air filters and replace dirty filters.
--   Wipers -- Visibility is particularly key in winter, but it's
     often compromised by precipitation, salt buildup on the
     windshield and reduced daylight. The life expectancy of a wiper
     blade is one year. If your car's blades are older, replace them.
     Also check and fill your wiper fluid reservoir. A harsh winter
     storm is the worst possible time to run out of wiper fluid or to
     discover your blades aren't performing properly.
--   Tires -- Tires are frequently the most neglected vehicle
     component but are among the most important. AAA estimates one in
     two tires on the road today is either worn or underinflated.
     Check tire pressure at least twice monthly. Also, check your
     tires' condition before winter sets in. Worn tires will not
     provide sufficient traction -- especially in wet weather. Uneven
     wear can indicate alignment, suspension or wheel balance
     problems.
--   Belts and Hoses -- Modern materials have made belts and hoses
     very durable with relatively long lives. Fortunately, neither
     belts nor hoses suddenly fail -- they deteriorate slowly over
     time. Check these two critical items regularly in combination
     with oil changes.
--   Antifreeze -- Many new vehicles come with antifreeze designed to
     last four or five years, but the ordinary product found in most
     auto supply stores is good for only two years. It's important to
     know what type of antifreeze you have so you can avoid spending
     money unnecessarily to replace it. Have the cooling system
     inspected annually.
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    Established more than 90 years ago, the AAA affiliate of Northern California, Nevada and Utah offers a wide array of automotive, travel, insurance and financial services. It is the second largest regional affiliate of the national AAA organization.


    Note to Editors: Tips on safe driving in winter are also available.