Smart Driving Begins in the Garage

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Your car is so much more than steel and wheels. It’s the quickest means of getting from where you are to where you want to be. Don’t let a simple maintenance oversight stop you along the road – or in your driveway. Here are quick tips to keep you moving.

If driving where it’s cold …

• Consult your owner’s manual for any winter preparations specific to your vehicle’s make and model.
• Once a month, add a bottle of fuel deicer to your gas tank to keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line.

Look under the hood

• Have a trusted mechanic check your battery, charging system and cables to make sure they have the power to start your engine.
• Check all fluid levels, topping off to manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Inspect all belts and hoses for signs of excessive wear and damage.

Keep your wheels in motion

• Examine your tires for low tread, uneven wear or signs of damage.
• Monitor tire pressure at least once a month – tires lose a pound of pressure for every drop of 10 degrees Fahrenheit – and make sure a working jack is readily accessible.

Keep a kit close by

• Always carry an emergency kit in case you become stuck. Include gloves, boots and blankets; flares; a small shovel; sand or kitty litter for traction; a flashlight and extra batteries; and a cell phone and an extra charger. (Even a cell phone without an active service plan can make a 911 emergency call.)