Don't Be Caught Off Guard by Winter Weather

Secretary Land: Prepare your vehicles now for winter

LANSING, MI - Sunday, October 24, 2010 - Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land encourages motorists to prepare their vehicles for winter driving so inconvenient or even dangerous situations can be avoided.

“Acting now to winterize your vehicle goes a long way toward making sure you get where you’re going safely in winter weather,” Land said. “We want all Michigan motorists to have a safe journey so we encourage people to make sure their car is ready for winter driving. Drivers should take a few simple steps before the snow starts falling to prepare their car.”

Freezing temperatures and slick roads pose a host of challenges to vehicles, such as added stress on engines, drained batteries and reduced tire traction. Generally accepted tips for winterizing vehicles include:

· Check the battery, which can lose half of its power in cold temperatures. Have it tested by a certified mechanic if it is more than three years old. It’s also a good idea to clean the posts and connections of any corrosion.

· Pay attention to the tires. Maintaining proper tire pressure is essential year-round, especially in the winter when snowy conditions reduce traction. Keep in mind that air pressure in cold tires will drop because air contracts as it cools.

· Make sure there is a clear field of view. Replace the wiper blades if necessary. They can deteriorate after only a year or two. Effective wipers are a must in order to remove snow, rain and road slush from the windshield. Also, fill the window-washer reservoir with cleaning fluid. Don’t use plain water because it will freeze.

· Use the right oil. It should have the proper viscosity for winter driving. Oil thickens in cold weather. Oil that gets too thick won’t lubricate the engine sufficiently.

· Inspect the belts and hoses. Cold weather can cause extra wear and tear.

· Avoid moisture in the fuel tank. When the temperature dips, it’s a good idea to keep your gas tank filled. That helps to prevent moisture from forming in the tank. Moisture can cause an engine to run rough or even prevent it from starting. Consider putting a bottle of fuel de-icer in the tank as well, to help keep moisture from the fuel line.

· Flush and refill the cooling system as recommended by the manufacturer. Check the coolant’s level and concentration periodically.

· Check the four-wheel drive system. If the vehicle is equipped with four-wheel drive, make sure it’s in working order before the snow flies. Since most people don’t use the system in the summer, it doesn’t hurt to make sure the system engages properly and that all gear oil levels are correct.

· Carry an emergency kit. It should include items such as a flashlight, first-aid supplies, jumper cables, a blanket and warm clothes, paper towels, a snow shovel, a well-stocked tool box and extra food and water.

“Follow the vehicle maker’s service schedule and get preventative maintenance performed when appropriate,” Land said. “With these simple tips in mind, you’ll be setting yourself up for safe, hassle-free winter driving.”

Visit www.Michigan.gov/sos for information on Secretary of State services and office locations.