Safe Driving Checklist from an Auto Center!

No one wants to break down at any time, but especially not in snowy winter weather. Whether you’re headed to work, or off for fun in the snow, start off with a visit to your auto center.  Schedule a routine inspection performed by expert auto shop technicians to cover all the bases—bumper-to-bumper! 

 Here is a check list provided by an auto shop that will ensure your vehicle is in peak operating condition:  

• Routine Service.  Have your auto shop check your entire vehicle thoroughly for leaks, worn hoses, or other needed parts, repairs, and replacements.
• Battery.  Check voltage, charging system, belts, and cable connections to make sure your battery is up to the challenges of winter.  It may be time to replace your old battery. 
• Cooling system.  Make sure you have enough coolant in your vehicle and that it’s designed to withstand the winter temperatures in your geographic area.  Ask your mechanic to check for leaks, and whether or not to flush the cooling system (draining the system and replacing the coolant).
• Windshield wipers and defrosters.  Make sure your windshield wipers work and replace worn blades.  Fill the washer reservoir before the first snow hits, using high-quality “no-freeze” fluid.  Keep extra on hand in your vehicle.  Make sure that your window defrosters (front and rear) work properly.
• Tires.  Tire pressure drops as the temperature drops, so check to ensure your tires are properly inflated, that the tread is sufficient with no uneven wear, and that the rubber is in good overall condition.  It may be time to replace your tires. You may choose to have snow tires installed before the snow storms hit. 
• Know your car.  Take time now to learn how to best handle your vehicle under winter weather driving conditions.  Know what kind of brakes your vehicle has and how to use them properly in stormy conditions. 
•  Plan your route.  Check the weather, road conditions, and traffic.  Allow plenty of time to get to your destination safely.  Let others know your route and anticipated arrival time.  Keep your gas tank close to full. Caution:  To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning when stuck in snow, be sure to keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow and ice, run your vehicle only in the open with the windows partially down, and only long enough to keep warm.
• Stock your vehicle.  Carry items in your vehicle to handle common winter driving tasks, such as, snow shovel, broom, ice scraper; sand or kitty litter (in case you get stuck in the snow), jumper cables, flashlight, flares and markers, blankets; cell phone with charger, water, food, and any necessary medicine (for longer trips or when driving in lightly populated areas).

Need to find professional auto center? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive by calling (308) 381-2295 or Contact Us for more information. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE,  Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE,