WINTER DRIVING TIPS
Now that winter is upon us, it‘s important to “Winterize“ you vehicle for a few months of safe and trouble free driving no matter what the elements offer.
Local garage owner and service manager Alvin Singh stresses the importance of being prepared for winter driving, “Despite modern day vehicles being so technologically advanced, it‘s still important for drivers to do small visual checks every week on their vehicle.“
Little things like keeping your tires inflated at the correct pressure, ensuring light bulbs, wiper blades are in good working order, having a battery that‘s not weak will enable you to have a better, trouble-free, winter driving experience.
Singh encourages owners of older vehicles to have a “Winterizing“ service carried out. “Any vehicle that‘s older than five years should be checked by a garage for the winter season“.
He explains, “vehicles of this age are usually out of the factory warrantee so you need to examine for things that may cause problems before they happen, that may cost you big money down the line later.”
Although getting you car winterized at a reputable shop is recommended, there are a few things you could do at home. Here is a list of things to check and update.
Wipers and washer fluid
Check the condition of the wiper blades before winter and replace if worn. Check washer fluid level every week, or more often if you use it heavily.
Batteries
Cold temperatures reduce a vehicle‘s battery power. If your vehicle battery is older than three years, have it tested it at an automotive shop for charging capacity.
Antifreeze
Top up and check weekly. Get the antifreeze flushed and renewed if you have had the car for a few years or if it‘s never been flushed.
Engine oil
Change your oil and filter in time for winter and check the engine‘s dipstick at least once a week. For long trips, have an extra container of oil in the trunk.
If you live on a hill, in a rural area or travel to the back country often, make sure you have a good set of winter tires. They will improve grip, braking, accelerating and handling on slippery roads. If you choose winter tires, put them on all four wheels not just on the back or front. Some people who live in the city or suburbs fit “all-season” tires, which are designed to cope with a range of weather conditions including heavy rain, but not heavy snow. Invest in a tire pressure monitor and check and adjust tire pressure on a weekly basis.
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Dunlop Winter Graspic DS2, R39.99 |
Goodyear Eagle Ultra GW3, C49.99 (C2.50 off before Dec. 10, 2005) |
Goodyear UltraGrip Ice, L42.99 (L0. off before Dec. 10, 2005) |
- Sale prices effective until December 10, 2005
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Prices set for size P195/60R15 fitted for mid-size cars, eg. 2004 Honda Civic
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5891 No. 3 Road
Richmond, BC V6X 2C9
Telephone: 604.273.3751
Fax: 604.273.0159
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