Prevent Road Trip Delays with Routine Vehicle Check-Up

Gifts have been loaded into the car, the kids are dressed and you’re ready to drive out of town for holiday dinner with family. A handful of miles into your journey the brake pedal vibrates with every touch.

“Issues that were minor during the summer can become major concerns when winter arrives,” said Rafael Lemaitre, a spokesman for the Federal Emergency Management Agency. “Conducting a thorough check up before winter arrives can help you avoid being stranded”

A few minutes of preparation can avoid a breakdown in foul weather, he said. The checklist also should include inspecting tire pressure and wear, belts, hoses and fluid levels.

Antifreeze is perhaps the most important fluid for winter driving, Lemaitre said. The mixture of antifreeze to water must be sufficient to prevent liquid from freezing.

What else does Lemaitre recommend before traveling for the holidays?

A new set of windshield wipers helps improve visibility, especially night vision. And all exterior lighting should be checked.

Do the bulbs appear dull? It may mean the bulbs need to be replaced. Or perhaps simply cleaning residue from light casings will improve brightness.

Lemaitre encourages drivers to spend a few minutes conducting their own walk-around before going on an extended drive. His list of winter items includes:

• Basic engine performance. Hard starts, rough idling, stalling and diminished power need to be corrected for safe winter travel.
• Radiator hoses. Look for flimsy hoses which can become brittle and crack.
• Metal parts. Are they rusty? If so, they may fall apart or leak.
• Battery and charging system. Cold weather can cause a weak battery to go dead overnight. The only accurate way to check the battery and overall charging system is with professional equipment. Also, corroded cables reduce a battery’s cold cranking power.
• Filters. Dirty air and fuel filters can reduce engine performance in thin mountain air.
• Engine oil. Check owner’s manual for frequency and consider using if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or frequent short trips. Consider “winter weight” oil
• Cooling systems. The cooling system should be completely flushed and refilled about every 24 months, or as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer on newer models.
• Windshield wipers. Use rubber-clad (winter) blades to fight ice build-up. And carry extra windshield washer solvent.
• Heater/Defroster. Newer models have a cabin air filter that needs inspection (check your owner's manual for the location and replacement suggestions).
• Exhaust System. Exhaust fumes are deadly. The trunk and floor boards should be inspected for small holes.
• Tires: Air compresses at higher mountain altitudes, and you may need to add extra air for mountain driving. Also, inspect for tire problems such as tread, uneven wear, sidewall cuts and nicks. Check that your spare is in good condition and inflated.
• Four-wheel drive systems. Inspect for fluid levels and drive train noises. Test the system to see if it engages and disengages properly.
• Lights. Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean road grime from all lenses. To prevent scratching, you may use a microfiber towel but never use a dry rag.