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GETTING READY FOR WINTER Don't be caught unprepared for the first blast of winter weather. Before the snow flies consider bringing your car in for a tune-up and inspection to prevent problems. The brakes must be faultless and equalized so there is no pulling to one side, which may cause skidding. If it hasn't been done in a while, have your cooling system flushed out with a good chemical cleaner and put in fresh antifreeze. Check containers, belts, hoses, the pressure caps and thermostat. Cold weather is hard on batteries. If your battery is several years old, have it checked. Make sure your battery connections are clean and tight. A diagnostic check-up of the engine can be a good pre-winter investment. If you're due for a tune-up, have it done before winter sets in. Faulty wiring, worn spark plugs, a sticking choke or emission control devices that need attention, can all lead to hard starting. Check the muffler and tailpipe system for carbon monoxide leaks, which can be especially dangerous during cold weather driving when the windows are closed. Make sure there is plenty of gas in your tank at all times. A full tank minimizes condensation, which may cause gas line freezing. Add gasoline antifreeze occasionally if your car is not EFI (electronic fuel injection). Have the wipers check to make sure they clear the windows properly. Install winter wiper blades and use cold weather wash fluid. Ensure your windshield can give you clear vision of the road and traffic around you. Dirty oil can give you trouble in the winter, so change the oil and filter. Check the other filters, including the fuel, air and transmission filters. Put an extra key in your pocket or wallet or buy a magnetic
key holder to attach one on your vehicle so you do not get locked out during a
winter emergency.
WINTER SAFETY FOR YOUR CAR Living in Manitoba, you should consider winter safety kits for your vehicle. If you don't have a kit you should get one and if you do have one you should inspect it to make sure it is up to date. The safety kit in your vehicle should include
If you are caught in a blizzard, stay in your car, run your engine sparingly and make sure that the tail pipe stays clear and unblocked. Don't panic! Take care while driving on the road and drive according to the conditions of the road. Getting to your destination a few minutes later is better than not at all. Better yet, leave a few minutes earlier...You cannot drive in the winter the same way you drive in the summer.
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BRAMER
AUTOMOTIVE CENTRE |