Winter checklist for safe holiday travel
Winter weather can do funny things to your automobile. How do you make sure that November’s cold climate doesn’t leave your family stranded during the upcoming holidays?
“You don’t want a vehicle to let you down on a trip to Tahoe or Steamboat Springs,” said Tony Molla, vice president of communications at the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. “You and your family could end up in a life-threatening situation.”
Every driver should be aware of potential problems caused by winter conditions and what it takes to handle them before taking a trip into the mountains. Moisture, road grime, salt and debris can damage or rust parts.
“Tires generate lots of road spray that gets up under the vehicle,” Molla said.
The winter checklist of service includes items not typically reviewed during fall inspections. ASE recommends the following inspection and service suggestions:
- 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 "winter weight" oil if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or frequent short trips.
- 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 drivetrain noises. Test the system to see if it engages and disengages properly.
- Fuel additives. Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line. A full gas tank helps keep moisture from forming.
- 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.
“Visibility is king especially for winter driving,” Molla said. Low angles of sunlight and the onset of early winter nights can create shadows and blind spots for you as well as other drivers. “It’s just as important to be seen as it is to see."