Preparing for Fall & Winter

As summer comes to an end, I think it's important to go over our cars and make sure they are cleaned out, cleaned up, tuned up, and prepared for the change in weather. I recommend getting your battery, alternator, and started tested if they are 3+ years old. If you are a AAA member, you can request battery service and they will send someone to your location to test your battery, alternator, and starter.

Your local mechanic should have the resources to test your alternator, starter, and battery as well. Often times part stores offer these services, as well.

I also highly recommend a tune up - make sure your plugs and wires (or coil packs) are all in good repair. Make sure your radiator, water pump, and hoses are all in good condition. Check your antifreeze levels - make sure your system is filled with a good quality antifreeze, and at the correct dilution so your "water" doesn't freeze.

Replace your cabin air filter and check that your heater turns on and blows warm air. It might not be cool enough just yet for the heater to be on, but the morning you need it, you want to know it's ready to go.

Whenever going over your vehicle I recommend checking your oil, changing it if it's time, and checking the tire pressure in all 4 tires. Double check that your spare is holding air and at the right pressure too - a flat spare doesn't help anyone!

Last but not least, pick up an auto safety kit. Find an out of the way spot to stick it and have the peace of mind of knowing you have a few first aid supplies and your own jumper cables. Here's a kit I recommend:

AAA 76-Piece Excursion Road Kit

Happy Trails!

Extend the Life of Your Vehicle with Preventative Maintenance

A little vehicle maintenance can go a long way - things such as belts, hoses, and fluids should be changed at regular intervals to ensure a long life for your car. If you are hiring someone to do basic maintenance for you, make sure they have a good reputation and the right equipment.

Some cars and trucks require special tools for things as simple as changing a serpentine belt. Without the right equipment, damage can be done to your vehicle. Be sure to refer to your owner's manual for specific information about the year, make and model of your vehicle.

Many times, people don't think about belts, but belts can cause a world of trouble. When I was a bit younger, and paid a bit less attention to my car, I neglected a serpentine belt. I ignored the telltale squeal, and even the slightly stranger sound that followed. (Something similar to grinding, but a faint grinding. In fact, it sounded almost like paper caught on the inside of a fan, being vibrated by the spinning blades.) I just let it go, and let it go, and let it go. When the belt failed, it ruined my plans for the holiday, and left me stuck on the side of the road.

Take it from me, that's not the place to be! It doesn't take long to change a belt - whether you do it yourself or take it in somewhere. And it is totally worth the investment. Most belts should be changed every 50,000 miles. And after shredding one while driving down the road, I keep a written maintenance log in my vehicle. I write down the date and mileage of each service, and then also when the next service is due.

By keeping up with the recommended belt changes, I have prevented another side of the road meltdown...Thank God!