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10/22/2007
Before the Cold Hits, AAA Suggests Preparing Yourself and Your Vehicle
AAA wants vehicle owners to “get ready, get set and go” during AAA Car Care Month. “Winter is just around the corner, and many vehicles are in need of preventive maintenance before the weather turns colder,” said John Milbrath, vice president of AAA Automotive Services. “Every fall, motorists should begin preparing themselves, and their vehicle, for the upcoming adverse weather. A little preparedness can go a long way when the ice and snow hit.”
In an effort to get motorists ready for the upcoming cold season, AAA has compiled the following tips:
Get ready. Before you drive long distances, check the weather conditions along your route. As a safety precaution, remember to bring a cell phone, charger and a winter driving kit that includes the following items: food, water, flashlight with fresh batteries, small snow shovel and brush, traction mats, ice scraper, booster cables, warm blanket, flares or triangle warning devices, heavy gloves, window washing solvent and first aid kit.
Get set. Inspect your vehicle thoroughly before leaving your driveway. Ensure tires are properly inflated, fluid levels are full, front and rear lights are operating and belts and hoses are in good condition. Keep in mind that one of the most common causes of cold-weather breakdowns is a weak or dead battery. Good indicators that your battery is weak include a starter motor that cranks the engine slowly when the ignition key is turned, or headlights that dim noticeably when the engine speed drops to an idle. Should you find your vehicle not in optimum working condition, or would like a trained profession to inspect your vehicle, AAA recommends you seek assistance from a certified automotive technician. If you do not have a trusted automotive technician, AAA has done the work for you. To locate a AAA Approved Auto Repair Facility, visit the Approved Auto Repair list at AAA.com.
Go. Now that your vehicle has the green light, here are some winter driving tips to get you to your destination safely.
- Keep your seatbelts fastened and make certain all passengers are securely restrained.
- The most effective way to stop on ice and snow is to gently apply your brakes well in advance of the point you intend to stop. If your vehicle has an antilock braking system (ABS), you may feel a vibration or pulsation in the brake pedal when coming to a stop. This means the system is operating as designed to prevent wheel lock up. Continue to apply firm pressure to the brake pedal until your vehicle comes to a complete stop. Do not pump your brakes if your car has ABS.
- When driving in falling snow or fog, lower your speed, use low-beam headlights or fog lights and keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
- To help avoid gas line freeze up, keep your gas tank at least half full to minimize condensation.
To further assist with vehicle maintenance, AAA is offering free 35-point maintenance inspections to AAA members at all AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities by appointment during October. To locate a shop in your neighborhood, visit AAA.com.
AAA Washington has been serving members and the traveling public since 1904. The organization provides a variety of exclusive benefits, including roadside assistance, discounts, maps and personalized trip planning, to its 980,000 members. In addition, its full-service travel and insurance agencies provide products and services for members and the public. Additional information is available through the company’s 26 offices in Washington and northern Idaho, at www.AAA.com, or by calling 1-800-562-2582.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Contact AAA
Jennifer Cook (425) 646-2055
Dave Overstreet (425) 467-7740
Cassie Devaney (509) 358-6950
