When temperatures fall into the single digits and below, breakdowns can be not only be frustrating, they can be downright dangerous. Taking time to prepare for the challenges winter driving brings is the key to avoiding breakdowns. Top of the list is making sure your vehicle is ready for the cold and packing and keeping a winter emergency kit in your vehicle.
Drivers are encouraged to follow maintenance schedules recommended by their vehicle manufacturer. Vehicle batteries have a three to five year life span. Extreme cold temperatures can reduce a batteries cranking power by up to 30 percent and for batteries that are nearing end of life, this reduction can easily strand the driver. A dead battery often times will occur with little warning. All local AAA Tire & Auto centers offer free battery checks and drivers can see how much life remains in their battery.
Drivers also need to keep a closer eye on tire pressure during cold weather - For every 10 degrees the temperature drops tires can lose a pound of pressure.
Tips to keep your vehicle on the go
Battery failure warning signs:
• Your vehicle cranks slowly when trying to start
• You hear a grinding, clicking or buzzing when you turn the ignition on
• Your headlights dim when you are idling but brighten when you rev the engine
• Your battery is more than three years old
Keep an eye on tire pressure:
• Check to make sure you have a spare tire, some vehicles do not, but instead have a tire inflator kit. If you have an inflator kit, make sure you know how to use it.
• If your vehicle is equipped with a tire inflator kit, AAA recommends that you check its expiration date and replace the kit when necessary, typically between four to eight years.
• Always keep tire pressure at the recommended level. Check the inside of the driver’s side door to see how much air pressure your tires require.
• When checking tire pressure, be sure to check the pressure in the spare tire.
AAA encourages drivers to leave home prepared for the colder temperatures:
• Always leave home prepared. Dress for the weather when you leave home. Even though you may be planning just a quick trip, bitterly cold temperatures can prove dangerous if your vehicle breaks down.
• Carry a fully charged cell phone and a car charger.
• Keep extra warm clothing and blankets in your vehicle.
• Don’t let your gas tank fall below a half a tank. It’s important to have enough gas to keep to keep your vehicle running if possible, to stay warm
• Check to make sure you have your AAA card and make sure it hasn’t expired.
Every month in Life, Cindy Antrican, Dayton-based public affairs manager for AAA Allied Group, Inc., provides traffic safety tips and information for motorists. Email: CAntrican@aaa-alliedgroup.com.
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