Now's the time for winter car maintenance

By Journal staff | Sunday, November 23, 2008

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AAA estimates approximately 5 million motorists will be stranded nationwide because of vehicle problems now through the end of the year. The auto association recommends taking the time now to perform routine winter maintenance.

Calls to AAA for emergency road service include requests for a tow or a jump start, calls from members with a flat tire, keys locked inside the vehicle or in need of AAA's mobile battery-replacement services.

"Cold temperatures and wintry weather take a real toll on vehicles, especially if they have not been properly maintained and prepared for winter," Mark Madeja, AAA South Dakota spokesman, said. "Now is not the time to defer vehicle maintenance."

AAA recommends motorists have their vehicles inspected now to avoid trouble down the road. Some key components technicians should inspect include:

-  Antifreeze. Check antifreeze annually to ensure it will withstand the winter cold. A 50/50 mixture of coolant and water will protect against freezing. 

-  Windshield wipers and washer fluid. Replace wiper blades if they do not clear the glass in a single swipe without streaking. Fill the windshield washer reservoir with winter detergent fluid to prevent freeze-up. 

-  Tires. Cold weather reduces tire inflation pressure, so check tire pressures frequently and maintain the vehicle manufacturer's recommended levels. Never reduce the tire pressure in an attempt to increase traction on snow and ice. This does not work and leads to excessive tire wear. 

-  Battery. Check for a secure fit, and clean any corrosion from battery terminals, connectors and cables. If the battery is out of warranty, have it tested. 

- Belts and hoses. Replace cracked or frayed accessory drive belts. Check coolant hoses for excessive wear, softness and bulges. And inspect hose clamps and water pump for leaks. 

-  All fluid levels should be checked, as well as the vehicle's lights, brakes, and exhaust system.

-  Assemble and carry an emergency roadside kit that includes a cellular phone and car charger, blankets, paper towels, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, a sack of sand or cat litter or traction mats, an ice scraper and snow brush, jumper cables and emergency flares or reflectors.