The Citizen, 2015-10-22, Page 15THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015. PAGE 15.
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Winter weather, freezing can damage vehicles
MS –Winter can be an
unforgiving season. Freezing
temperatures coupled with snow and
ice can take its toll on people who
live in climates where cold weather
is a fact of winter life.
While winter can test people’s
patience, it also can be harsh on cars
and trucks. Understanding what
components of a vehicle can be
compromised by dropping
temperatures and snowy roads can
help drivers take action to safeguard
their automotive investments.
While the Canadian Automobile
Association notes that winter can
wreak havoc on just about every part
of a vehicle, there are some parts that
seem to bear the brunt of Old Man
Winter’s abuse. Properly servicing
and caring for a car or truck can
help.
Drivers should take their vehicles
for a tune-up and inspection before
wintry weather arrives. A mechanic
will examine the car battery and
check antifreeze levels and make
sure that the thermostat, defroster,
brakes and even wiper blades are
working effectively. Have the tires
inspected for adequate tread, which
can make navigating roads safer. If
the treads are worn, replace the tires.
In addition to visiting their
mechanics, drivers can perform
some inspections and fixes
themselves.
• Check that all of the vehicle’s
lights are operational so your car can
be easily seen during inclement
weather. Exchange your existing
windshield washer fluid with one
that will not freeze in cold
conditions. Check the nozzles on the
windshield-washer system routinely
and clear out any blockages of ice or
debris. While addressing windshield
washer fluid, also replace worn out
windshield wiper blades with ones
that can withstand snow and icy
weather.
• A new coating of wax can serve
as a shield against road salt, snow,
sleet and rain. Try a polymer wax to
protect the paint. Whenever possible,
rinse off salt and grime so it does not
dry on the car and gradually wear
away at the paint.
Some drivers mistakenly believe
that salt stops being a problem once
it dries simply because moisture is
the active ingredient for a corrosive
reaction. But humidity in the air is
enough to keep the salt eating away
at the car’s paint, and that can
contribute to rust. Be sure to rinse
off the undercarriage of the vehicle
as well.
• Have your tires’ alignment
checked toward the end of winter or
early spring. A season of travelling
over pothole-ridden roads or hitting
curbs buried under snow drifts can
affect the alignment.
Get everything back on track.
Similarly, inspect tires routinely, as
weather changes can affect tire
pressure and strength.
• Use a soft snow brush or a foam
brush to clear snow off of the car.
Avoid hard plastic scrapers you
might use on your windshield, as
they can scratch painted surfaces.
• Try to park the vehicle in a
garage or under a car port, each of
which can protect cars and trucks
from the often harsh elements of
winter.
Vehicles can be affected by the
cold weather. Keep them running
efficiently to prevent damage this
winter.
MS –Road trips can make for
great weekend getaways or even
more lengthy vacations for those
who can’t get enough of the open
road. But before embarking on any
road trips, motorists should
replenish their automotive
emergency kits with the following
items so they are fully prepared in
the event of an accident or an injury.
• First-aid kit: A first-aid kit can
treat cuts and abrasions suffered
while you are out of the car and even
some minor injuries that may result
if you are in a car accident. Include
essential items like adhesive tape,
antibiotic ointment, antiseptic wipes,
aspirin, bandages, a cold compress,
gauze and scissors.
Visit www.redcross.org for a more
extensive list of items to include in
Being winter wise
Wild winter weather can hurt vehicles, but drivers can fight the damage caused by snow, sleet,
slush and ice and prevent it as well. Everything from a fresh coat of wax to the right kind of
snow brush to tire alignment is important in making sure that a vehicle comes out of the winter
months as unscathed as possible. (MS Photo)
Be prepared with
an emergency kit
Continued on page 17
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TIME FOR WINTER TIRES & TO GET YOUR BRAKES SERVICED