The Car Care Council recommends motorists take the following steps toward winterizing a vehicle:
Tag(s): Winter Driving, Winter Tires
Battery Cables and Terminals
Make sure the battery terminals and cable ends are free from corrosion, and the connections are tight.
Drive Belts
Inspect the underside of accessory drive belts for cracks or fraying. Many newer multi-rib “serpentine” belts are made of materials that do not show obvious signs of wear; replace these belts at 60,000-mile intervals.
Engine Hoses
Inspect cooling system hoses for leaks, cracks or loose clamps. Also, squeeze the hoses and replace any that are brittle or feel excessively spongy.
Tire Pressure
Check tire inflation pressure more frequently in fall and winter. As the average temperature drops, so will tire pressures — typically by 1 PSI for every 10 degrees. The proper tire pressure levels can be in the owner’s manual or on a sticker typically located on the driver’s side door jamb. Also, check the spare.
Air Filter
Check the engine air filter by holding it up to a 60-watt light bulb. If light can be seen through much of the filter, it is still clean enough to work effectively. However, if light is blocked by most of the filter, replace it.
Lights
Check the operation of all headlights, tail lights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers, and back-up lights. Replace any burnt out bulbs.
Wiper Blades
The blades should completely clear the glass with each swipe. Replace any blade that leaves streaks or misses spots. In areas with snow, consider installing winter wiper blades that wrap the blade frame in a rubber boot to reduce ice and snow buildup that can prevent good contact between the blade and the glass.
Washer Fluid
Fill the windshield washer fluid reservoir with a winter cleaning solution that has antifreeze components to prevent it from freezing
Brakes
If there is any indication of a brake problem, have the system inspected by a certified technician to ensure all components are in good working order.
Transmission, Brake and Power Steering Fluids
Check all fluids to ensure they are at or above the minimum safe levels.
Source: AAA Mid-Atlantic
Tag(s): Winter Driving, Winter Tires
There hasn’t been much snow in Toronto due to above average temperatures. This doesn’t mean there won’t be snow this season though. When it does snow, it will mean challenging driving conditions for drivers. With snow and ice on the road, cautious drivers slow to a halt as confident drivers become reckless. On January 10th, Richard Spénard, a professional driver and driving instructor for Michelin Canada, will be in Toronto to demonstrate how to drive safely on winter roads, no matter the weather conditions or driver personality. Find out what type of driver you are here.
What: Media demonstration of winter driving techniques
(Taping and interview opportunities)
Who: Richard Spénard, professional driver
When: Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Time: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, on appointment
Where: Parking lot, Ontario Place
955 Lakeshore Boulevard West, Toronto
For additional safety driving tips, please visit the Michelin Winter Driving Academy.
Tag(s): Winter Driving, Winter Tires