Preparing now for the frigid temperatures predicted over the next few days will help keep your vehicle on the road, advises AAA Michigan.
On Jan. 1, 2008, nearly 4,820 motorists were assisted across the state, with common calls for help including dead batteries and spin-outs due to snow-covered and slick roadways.
Motorists can help keep their vehicles on the road by doing the following:
* Faulty batteries cause more car starting problems than any other factor.
At 0 degrees, a battery has 35 percent less starting power than in
summer. At minus 20, battery power drops 50 percent. If your battery is
more than three years old, have a load test performed by a mechanic.
* Park your car in the garage. If you have no garage, put a tarp over the
hood or park protected from prevailing winds. To keep doors from
freezing shut, place a plastic trash bag between the door or window
glass and the frame.
* Keep the fuel tank at least half-full to avoid fuel-line freeze-up.
* To avoid frozen door locks, buy a lubricant available in most auto
supply stores. If your lock freezes, heat your key with a pocket lighter
but remember to wear gloves or hold the key with pliers. Or, fill a
plastic jug with hot water. Hold it against the door panel or lock area.
Do not throw hot water on the car. It, too, will freeze and you run the
risk of cracking glass.
* If you become snowbound, stay with your vehicle. It provides excellent
shelter from the cold and makes it easier for rescuers to locate you. If
you can start your engine, run it only enough to keep warm. Make sure
the exhaust pipe is snow-free. Keep emergency supplies in the car, such
as a cell phone, boots, hats, gloves, blankets, a "coffee can heater",
flashlight and reflective triangle.
AAA and the Michigan Towing Association remind motorists to give tow truck operators a "brake." They're there to help you. Drive with care when a tow truck's there.
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