Traveling with Your Car

The following tips are from the Better Business Bureau.
Preparing your car for travel is very important. Make sure your car is ready for the trip by checking all vital fluids such as the oil and coolant, and by visually inspecting your car for anything that looks out of place. It is always a good idea to double-check the coolant hoses and all belts on your car. Failures of these items are among the most common reasons that cars break down; but fortunately, they are inexpensive to replace.

• Coolant/radiator overflow reservoir
• Radiator cap
• Windshield washer fluid reservoir
• Engine oil fill cap
• Master cylinder

Also, check your car's battery for signs of corrosion or cracks. If the battery is the "self-diagnosing" type with an indicator, make sure it is fully charged. An older, weak battery may fail without much warning. If your battery has cracks, the fluid could leak from one or more cells, rendering it too weak to start your car. If you are taking an extended trip, or if your car has not been serviced recently, you should have it checked by a reputable mechanic before leaving. A good mechanic can usually spot the problems in advance, and advise you on how long you can delay a repair and what the consequences of not immediately repairing your car may be.

Click on any of the links below for great winter tips!

• Car Care Council - A lot of great automotive information
• Driving conditions and related links
• Timing belt information
• Wheel alignment information
• TireSafety.com
• Tire safety information from the NHTSA

More Winter Driving Tips:

It's important to follow rules during the winter season. Below are a few good tips to always keep in mind and discuss with others!

1. Maintain good visibility, keep windows scraped clean, headlights clean and working properly.
2. Heater and defrost system works properly and that it clears windshield properly.
3. Do not use cruise control in poor weather conditions. On slippery roads with the cruise control engaged your vehicle could accelerate and cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle.
4. Maintain at least a half tank of fuel.
5. Test battery annually or if battery has ever been run dead, inspect for corrosion. Drive sensibly and maintain proper distance from other vehicles. Maintain a speed that is adequate for road conditions and traffic speeds.
6. Last but not least, ALWAYS wear your seat belt!

Check tire tread depth, condition and tire pressure on a regular basis for all driving seasons.