Chris Clos, general manager of Firestone Auto Care in Springfield, provided these tips to prepare your car for winter.
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1. Conducting the "penny test" is the easiest method of checking the tire's treading. If you put a penny in your tread and you can see all of Abraham Lincoln's head, it's probably time for new tires.
2. To check what your cold weather tire pressure should be, look for the requirements located on the door jam of your driver's side door.
3. Check and fill windshield washer fluid with the winter grade fluid.
Standard fluids don’t work well in lower temperatures and can cause the fluid lines and windshield nozzles to freeze and malfunction.
4. Also, every motorist should create an emergency kit to keep in their car, in the event you become stranded on the road. These items include a blanket, jumper cables, first aid kit, portable shovel and sand.
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5. For those who aren't auto repair savvy, taking your car to the shop could be the next step in preparations for the winter. Have the mechanic check your belts and hoses for wear and leaks. Also, have the mechanic test your coolant/antifreeze fluid.
6. Clos recommended that you allow cars to warm up before driving. This will allow your fluids to cycle properly and your engine oil to warm up.
7. Also, properly defrost your windshield. Not allowing them to defrost can cause your wiper arm or motor to malfunction. According to Clos, the replacement of wiper motors are the most common repair he encounters at his shop. The replacement of the motor alone can cost hundreds of dollars.
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