Motorists Encouraged to Prepare Vehicles for Frigid Temperatures

Indianapolis, IN, Dec. 12, 2016 - In anticipation of below-average temperatures and the possibility of accumulating snow forecast for much of Indiana later this week, AAA Hoosier Motor Club is encouraging motorists to be proactive in preparing their respective vehicles.

Battery and Charging System - Have your vehicle's battery and charging system tested by a qualified technician. A full-charged battery in good condition is required to start an engine in cold weather. AAA members can request a visit from a AAA Mobile Battery Service technician who will test their battery and replace it, on-site, if necessary. AAA Approved Auto Repair shops can also test and replace weak batteries.

Battery Cables and Terminals - Make sure the battery terminals and cable ends are free from corrosion and the connections are tight.

Drive Belts - Inspect the underside of accessory drive belts for cracks and fraying. Many newer multi-rib "serpentine" belts are made of materials that do not show obvious signs of wear; replace these belts at 60,000-mile intervals.

Engine Hoses - Inspect cooling system hoses for leaks, cracks or loose clamps. Also, squeeze the hoses and replace any that are brittle or excessively spongy feeling.

Tire Tread - Start shopping for new tires when the tread depth reaches 4/32 of an inch, and replace any tire whose tread is worn to 2/32 of an inch or less. Uneven tire wear can indicate alignment, wheel balance or suspension problems that must be addressed to prevent further tire damage.

Tire Pressure - Check tire inflation pressure on all four tires and the spare more frequently in fall and winter. As the average temperature drops, so will tire pressures - typically by one PSI for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit. The proper tire pressure levels for a given vehicle can be found in its owner's manual or on a tire information sticker typically located on the driver's side door jamb.

Air Filter - Check the engine air filter by holding it up to a 60-watt light bulb. If light can be seen through much of the filter, it is still clean enough to work effectively. However, if light is blocked by most of the filter, replace it.

Lights - Check the operation of all headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers and back-up lights. Replace any burnt-out bulbs.

Wiper Blades - The blades should completely clear the glass with each swipe. Replace any blade that leaves streaks or misses spots.

Washer Fluid - Fill the windshield washer fluid reservoir with a winter cleaning solution that is formulated to prevent it from freezing.

Brakes - If there is any indication of a potential brake problem, have the system inspected by a certified technician to ensure all components are in good working order.

Transmission, Brake and Power Steering Fluids - Check all fluids to ensure they are at or above the minimum safe levels.

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