Car Articles

The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check fluid level monthly. A word of caution: Removal of cables can cause damage or loss of data/codes on some newer vehicles. Check your manual. Be sure to avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.

Your vehicle should be placed on a lift and the exhaust system examined for leaks. The trunk and floorboards should be inspected for small holes. Exhaust fumes can be deadly.

Worn tyres will be of little use in winter weather. Examine tyres for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Check tyre pressure once a month. Let the tyres “cool down” before checking the pressure. Rotate as recommended. Don't forget your spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition. Under-inflated tyres or poorly aligned wheels makes your engine work harder and thus use excess gasoline. Also have your brakes checked periodically for safety and to prevent costly repairs that can be caused by neglect.

Often neglected until a major failure, routine checks and fluid changes at prescribed intervals can prevent very costly repairs down the line.

Put a few “high-energy” snacks in your glove box. The supply kit should contain battery jumper cables, a first-aid kit, shovel, basic tool kit (pliers, screwdriver, wrench, pocket knife), blankets, transistor radio, a bag of sand, and bright-colored cloth. If possible, motorists should carry a cellular phone so that they can call for help.