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Stress Management Works for Holidays and Automobiles
In domino fashion, failing to plan for maintenance can turn
small problems into larger ones, putting a serious dent in your
automotive budget. The penalties of procrastinating on vehicle
maintenance range from a heater that runs cold to a battery that
won't start the car.
Take care of your car's seasonal services immediately and
make plans to get ahead of the game next year. An early visit to
your repair facility provides the opportunity to budget for
unanticipated repairs. The Car Care Council offers the following
checklist:
Engine performance
A poorly maintained engine is hard to start in cold weather, if
it starts at all. It may run rough and lose power. Have fuel,
ignition and emission control systems checked, necessary
components replaced and adjustments made.
Battery and electrical system
How old is your battery? If it's three or more years old, it
should be tested and replaced if necessary. Even a strong
battery that can deliver full power at 80 degrees F. will have
dropped to 65 percent of its output at freezing temperature and
only 40 percent at zero degrees.
Clean and tighten battery terminals, as loose or corroded
connections can cause symptoms of a weak or dead battery.
Oil and filter
Change both as recommended in the owner's manual, generally at
3,000-mile intervals for severe conditions and cold weather
operation, especially when most driving is stop-and-go traffic.
Check the owner's manual for more information on severe service
or refer to Car Care Council's
Service Interval Schedule.
Visibility
Replace old wiper blades and be sure your washers are working.
Carry spare washer solvent in your vehicle.
Cooling system
A vehicle's antifreeze should be changed annually, or as
recommended in the owner's manual. Flush the cooling system
every 24 months. The recommended mixture is 50/50 antifreeze and
distilled water. Have the system pressure tested for leaks and
check hoses and drive belt(s) for tension and condition.
Tires
Inspect, balance, check inflation and rotate tires. Check
inflation on the spare and make sure the jack is in place.
Lights
Check all lights and replace burned out bulbs
Exhaust System
Have the vehicle put on a lift for an inspection of the exhaust
system. Leaking exhaust fumes can be deadly. |
