In a perfect world, all roads would be dry and untrafficked. But in the real world, drivers face a wide variety of weather conditions, and when snow is added to the mix, the potential for automotive disaster can increase exponentially.
Whether you venture to the ski slopes once in a blue moon or spend six months of every year in snowy climes, we’ve assembled a few crucial points to remember while braving snow-covered roads. Follow these tips, and you might even look forward to cold weather driving!
Slow, Turn, Go!
Fabulous Freddys
Auto technicians say the key to keeping vehicles running well-today and down the road-is routine maintenance. Yet many drivers tend to stall when it comes to keeping up with some everyday auto-basics.
A recent survey by the Car Care Council found:
The inspections include volunteers checking fluid levels, tires, lights and other system components. After the inspections are complete, volunteers and motorists review any problems that may have been found and motorists receive information about proper vehicle maintenance and repair.
The inspections are usually held in parking lots at shopping malls, schools and businesses and they’re generally sponsored by area repair facilities and auto-shops, as well as other businesses, civic groups and radio stations.
Fabulous Freddys
Worn out tires and windshield wiper blades are symptoms of neglected vehicle maintenance that put drivers and passengers at serious risk during the typically rainy months of spring.
Thin tire treads create hazardous driving conditions when water builds up on the roadway, according to the Car Care Council. Deep tread accommodates accumulated water; thin tread does not. Thin tread causes the tire to hydroplane – ride up on a film of water, losing contact with the pavement, similar to driving on ice.
The simplest way to check tire tread depth is with a penny. Insert the penny into the grooves of the tread. If you are able to see all of Lincoln’s head, the tire needs replacement.
Fabulous Freddys
Results of vehicle inspections held at community car care events across the country during Car Care Months in April and October 2011 reveal that 84 percent of vehicles need service or parts, the highest percentage in five years, according to the Car Care Council. The unsatisfactory condition of vehicles reflects the current economic climate and reinforces the continued need for consumer education about the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair.
“During an uncertain economy, some motorists think they will save money by putting off needed vehicle maintenance,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “What they don’t realize is that neglecting routine maintenance can end up costing a lot more in the long run. These results demonstrate the importance of consumer education as the lack of proper vehicle maintenance can greatly impact highway safety, air quality, cost operation, and vehicle performance and dependability.”
An analysis of vehicle inspection forms, submitted by volunteers who conducted a record number of car care events in 2011, found the top problem areas to be engine oil and fluids, air filters, battery cables, lights, belts and hoses. Nearly one out of 10 vehicles had the check engine light on and new air filters were needed in 19 percent of the vehicles. At least one belt was reported as unsatisfactory in 20 percent of the vehicles inspected, and 15 percent required at least one new hose. Battery cables, clamps and terminals needed maintenance in 17 percent of the vehicles inspected, while 10 percent of the batteries were not properly held down.
Fabulous Freddys
