How to Drive Safely on Ice

Driving on ice requires extra caution! Here are some tips to stay safe behind the wheel:

  1. Slow Down: Reduce your speed significantly when driving on icy roads. It takes longer to stop or maneuver on ice.
  2. Increase Following Distance: Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. Sudden stops are riskier on icy roads.
  3. Gentle Movements: Avoid sudden acceleration, braking, or sharp turns. Make slow and deliberate movements.
  4. Winter Tires: Consider using winter tires for better traction on icy surfaces.
  5. Stay Informed: Check weather and road conditions before your trip. Plan accordingly and allow extra time for your journey.
  6. Brake Carefully: If you need to brake, do it gently. Use your brakes with steady, light pressure to avoid skidding.
  7. Stay Alert: Keep your focus on the road. Watch for icy patches, especially in shaded areas or bridges.

Remember, your safety and the safety of others are top priorities when driving in icy conditions. #DriveSafe #WinterDrivingTips 

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Items to Include in an Emergency Car Kit

Some of a driver’s worst fears are a dead battery or alternator, a blown gasket, your car running out of gas and any number of other car troubles that leave you stranded on an empty stretch of road.

For winter drivers, there’s also the possibility of sliding off an icy road into a snowbank. A quick call to a tow truck or roadside assistance service will usually get you to safety within a couple of hours, but technology can fail, and there are still parts of the country that aren’t covered by cellular service.

In such scenarios, having a car safety kit with the right components can make the difference in keeping you and your passengers safe until help arrives. 58% of people have some emergency supplies in their cars, but only 30% are confident that what they have is sufficient if bad weather strikes.

Depending on the problem, having the proper tools can also get you back on the road as quickly as possible. While some items should be found in every trunk, not every roadside emergency kit is built the same. You should tailor your kit to the type and condition of your vehicle, as well as the weather in which you’re typically driving. With the unpredictability of winter weather, even drivers in traditional warm-weather states may want to consider adding safety items for snow and ice. It’s always wise to err on the side of caution and include certain items just in case.

Here is the essential emergency car kit list:

1. Flares and lighting

The first and most important safety items to include in your auto emergency kit are flares or reflective triangles, which warn other drivers of the roadside hazard, especially in low visibility conditions. In case of a breakdown, they should be spaced out evenly along the roadside behind your vehicle. For a reusable, longer-lasting option, invest in battery-operated LED flares. A flashlight is also a necessity, especially a multi-use version that flashes.

2. Jumper cables

Jumper cables are another essential to include in the car emergency kit. Batteries can die or lose their juice at the least opportune moment, and jumper cables, with a jump start from another vehicle, can at least get you to the next service station. You should also consider carrying a separate battery pack for starting your car when no one else is around to help.

3. First aid kit

A first aid kit is a must-have item to include in any emergency road kit, indispensable for addressing smaller everyday injuries and more serious wounds from an accident. You can purchase them prepacked with all the essentials or assemble one customized to your needs. Families with small children should include medications that are age appropriate. Be sure to know what medications are needed for your passengers and pack enough to last for a reasonable time.

4. Spare tire, tire iron and car jack

A spare tire and tire-changing equipment should be included in your car emergency kit. You should familiarize yourself with how to change a tire just in case help is unavailable and you have to do it yourself. Check your kit every 6 months and make sure that your spare tire is properly inflated.

5. Mobile phone and charger

Another essential for your safety when driving is a working mobile phone and charger in case of a low or dead phone battery. It’s important that you can call for help if you’ve been seriously injured from a car accident or something is wrong with the car.

6. Water

Along with keeping warm, staying hydrated is an essential element of survival. Keep clean drinking water in smaller plastic containers, which will thaw faster with a little body heat in the winter than large gallon jugs. If driving in a remote area, you should be sure to bring plenty of water – one website recommends at least one gallon per person per day for three days if possible.

7. Nonperishable food

Packing food in your kit will help keep you fed in an emergency. Nonperishable food such as granola bars, soup, nuts, jerky, peanut butter and dried fruit are great options to pack in your kit.

8. Car fluids and tools

Flat tires are one of the most common causes of roadside trouble, but it’s not always possible to change a tire. Including a can of tire inflator and sealant in your kit can get you back on the road at least until the next stop. Other items that may help avert a roadside crisis and keep you going:

  • 1 quart or more of motor oil (make sure it’s the right formula for your car)
  • 1 gallon of coolant
  • A toolkit with screwdrivers, pliers and an adjustable wrench
  • 1 set of windshield wiper blades

Good wiper blades are also crucial to have handy, as they can clear a windshield in less than three swipes without leaving streaks. Keep a set of new blades in your vehicle so you can replace worn blades quickly and on the go.

9. Winter emergency car kit

Aside from winterizing your car, you should keep certain things in your car to prepare you for a winter emergency. If you know you’ll be driving in snowy weather, include:

  • An ice scraper
  • A spray bottle with washer fluid
  • 1 set of snow chains for your tires
  • A shovel
  • Waterproof matches

Store all your items together in a box or carrying case in the trunk, making sure it’s easily accessible in case you need it in a hurry. Blankets, a sleeping bag or a heat-retaining emergency survival blanket are critical for making it through a cold night, especially in wintry climates. Bottled water and long-lasting food items such as granola or energy bars can be rotated out over time.

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How to Prepare Your Car for a Winter Storm

Winter’s here! Is your car ready for the snowy roads? 🚗 Here are some top tips to prep your vehicle for the chilly weather:

1️⃣ Check Your Tires: Ensure they have good tread depth and proper inflation. Consider snow tires for extra traction.

2️⃣ Fluid Check: Top off antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, and ensure oil levels are adequate for cold weather.

3️⃣ Battery Health: Cold weather can strain batteries. Check for charge and clean any corrosion.

4️⃣ Lights and Wipers: Ensure all lights are working correctly and replace worn wiper blades.

5️⃣ Emergency Kit: Pack essentials like a flashlight, blanket, ice scraper, jumper cables, and snacks.

6️⃣ Check Brakes: Get brakes inspected to ensure optimal performance on slippery roads.

7️⃣ Keep Fuel Tank Full: This helps prevent condensation and ensures you’re ready for unexpected delays.

Remember, safety comes first! Take it slow, increase your following distance, and be prepared for changing road conditions.

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How to Check Your Car’s Oil

Oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle’s engine. Making sure there’s always enough oil is the easiest way to ensure that you avoid catastrophic engine failure and the huge repair costs that go with it.

This is especially important if you’re driving an older vehicle. When a car’s odometer rolls past the 100,000-mile mark, wear on the engine can cause it burn off small amounts of oil every time you drive. That loss adds up, which can make the oil level go down too far between oil changes. High-mileage vehicles are also more prone to oil leaks. Both of those issues are reasons to check your oil regularly to gauge just how often you need to top it up.

Check your oil once a week for a month and you’ll know how quickly it gets depleted—or if it gets depleted at all. Once you know that, you can check it less frequently—say, once a month. Here’s how to check your oil:

Step 1: Prepare to Check

Be sure your vehicle is parked on level ground with the engine off, the transmission in Park (or the manual transmission in a lower gear) and the parking brake on. Lift the hood. If you don’t know how to do this, consult your owner’s manual.

Most vehicles have a hood-release lever under the instrument panel on the left side. There’s also a safety catch under the front edge of the hood that you’ll have to unlatch before you can raise the hood.

Step 2: Locate the Dipstick

The dipstick on most vehicles is easy to spot, as it has a small colored handle—usually yellow or orange—marked with an oil-can symbol.

Step 3: Pull the Dipstick

Pull the dipstick fully out of the tube that it’s housed in. It’s like pulling a sword from a sheath. Have a rag or paper towel ready and wipe any oil off of the end of the dipstick. At the tip of the dipstick you will see two lines: the lower one indicates that the oil level is one quart low. The upper line denotes that the crankcase (the car’s oil tank) is full. Some dipsticks are also marked with words like “full” and “add.”

Step 4: Note Oil Level

Insert the dipstick into the tube slowly and push it all the way down. Now withdraw it and look closely at the tip, which should have oil on it. If the level of the oil is between the two lines, your vehicle has enough oil. If it’s at the low mark or below, it’s time to add a quart.

Step 5: Wait and Re-check

Once you’ve added a quart of oil, wait several minutes for the oil to drain down into the crankcase and and then check it again to ensure that the level is at least between the high and low marks. The oil level does not have to be at the high mark for your engine to have enough lubrication to run safely.
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Top Christmas driving tips

Driving during the festive season can be both joyful and challenging. To ensure safety and smooth travels amid the holiday rush, here are the top 12 Christmas driving tips. These recommendations encompass practical advice and crucial reminders tailored to help you navigate the roads during this celebratory period. Whether you’re embarking on a long journey to visit loved ones or navigating busy shopping districts, these tips aim to enhance your driving experience while prioritizing safety for you, your passengers, and fellow road users.

1 – Is the journey vital?

If conditions are expected to be bad, ask yourself whether you even need to travel. Could you delay leaving and wait for conditions to improve? Could you use the train instead?

2 – Fit to drive?

A cold or flu can reduce reaction times. Some medication, such as over- the-counter remedies, can cause drowsiness which will make matters worse. Check medicine warnings and if in doubt ask a pharmacist for advice. Consider changing your plans if you’re concerned. After all, anxiety can affect confidence and lead to unsafe decision making.

3 – Check your car

Has your car been serviced recently? It’s a good way to minimize the risk of breakdowns, as well as maximizing the fuel economy. Check the tread, condition and pressure in all your tires. Tread should be well above the legal limit. Not only will good tread give your tires the best grip but it also disperses water and reduces the risk of aquaplaning.

4 – Travel essentials

Be prepared with an essential travel pack. Fully charge your phone and have important numbers with you in case you need to contact family, friends or your breakdown services. Ensure you have plenty of fuel or – if you drive an electric car – that it’s fully charged. Cold weather reduces the available range. Take warm clothes, pack a blanket and refreshments in case there is an unexpected delay.

5 – See and be seen

Clean all the lights and windows before every journey to give the best visibility. This helps you to see others on the road – and allows them to see you.

6 – Prepare for glare

During the winter months the sun can be much lower and this can make it more difficult to see. Consider having sunglasses with you (including a prescription pair) as they can help reduce the glare.

7 – Allow extra time

Try to avoid rushing on a journey. Leave early and accept the likelihood of congestion and delays. This is much better for your nerves than allowing yourself to get worked up because of situations over which you have no control. But do let relatives or friends know the route you are taking and your expected arrival time.

8 – Keep alert

Take more breaks, especially if you’re driving in poor weather. This requires greater concentration which makes everyone more tired. You’ll know when fatigue is affecting you – it doesn’t just take you by surprise. So resist the urge to press on, and take a proper break.

9 – If you do break down…

Make safety your priority. Turn on your hazard lights and try to pull off the road. Ensure you and your vehicle are visible, then call for breakdown assistance.

10 – Closed means closed

Sometimes police and local authorities have to close roads because of flooding or snow. Don’t be tempted to drive through a road closure as you’re only putting yourself, your passengers – and your rescuers – at unnecessary risk.

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Winter Tire Safety Tips

Winter is here, and that means it’s time to prioritize safety on the roads! 🚗 Stay safe and prepared with these essential Winter Tire Safety Tips:

  1. Invest in Winter Tires: Swap out your regular tires for winter ones. They provide better traction and grip on icy or snowy roads.
  2.  Check Tire Pressure: Cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop. Ensure your tires are properly inflated to maintain optimal performance.
  3.  Rotate Tires Regularly: Rotate your tires to ensure even wear and better traction throughout the winter season.
  4.  Monitor Tread Depth: Insufficient tread depth reduces traction. Check tread depth and consider replacing tires if they’re worn out.
  5.  Keep Emergency Supplies: Equip your vehicle with essentials like an ice scraper, shovel, blankets, and emergency kit in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Stay safe and #DriveSmart during the winter months!

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TIPS FOR WARMING UP YOUR CAR IN THE WINTER

Winter is here, and so is the need to warm up your car! Here are some essential tips to ensure a cozy and safe start in the chilly mornings:

1. RUN FOR 30 SECONDS

Even in the cold, modern cars run safely after about 30 seconds. If your car was made in the last 20-30 years, it uses fuel injection to push an air/fuel mixture into the engine and is ready to drive within about 30 seconds. A fuel injection system has sensors for atmospheric conditions like air pressure, temperature, and humidity and automatically adjust the air/fuel mixture. The newer the car, the more effective and numerous the sensors are. Because of this, it is a good idea to treat your fuel system with a fuel additive from your local AutoZone. Older vehicles used a carburetor to control the mixture going into the engine, with a manual or electric choke making the mixture rich. In cold temps, even electric choked carburetors needed a few minutes to warm up in order to prevent the engine from stalling.

2. DRIVE NORMAL FOR 5 MINUTES

Normal driving for 5-10 minutes warms your car up faster than idling. Your car runs most efficiently at normal operating temperatures. Driving your car normally will warm it up much faster than idling in the driveway. Long idle times waste fuel and cause increased wear and tear on components.

3. MODERN OIL AND LOW TEMPERATURES

While modern, high-quality oil flows better at low temperatures than oil of the past, there is still cause for concern about engine oiling in extreme cold during start-up. Synthetic Oils were originally designed for the very premise of extreme cold temperatures and holding their viscosity better. Once oil gets below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, it very rapidly loses its ability to hold viscosity and becomes thicker and thicker. This makes the original start-up in extreme cold more difficult on the engine, as it is trying to circulate thick, cold oil. The tell-tale sign of this in extreme cold is the ticking and clacking of lifters and engine components during the first 5 to 30 seconds of the engine firing up. Quickly though, as the engine rises in temperature, the oil will begin to flow well. The first number in oil weight, the one with a w, indicates the oil’s ability to perform in low temperatures (w stands for winter). The lower the w number, the better the oil maintains viscosity in cold temperatures

4. RESTRICTED VIEWS ARE DANGEROUS

Make sure your windshield is clear of ice, snow, and debris before driving. Keeping the inside of the windshield clean and clear of moisture will help with fog, before you ever have to use the defroster. If your windshield or windows are foggy, you may want to wait a minute for the defroster to heat up before driving off. Keeping a good ice scraper and snow brush handy can help get your windows clear quickly.

5. USE A BLOCK HEATER AND BATTERY PAD

If you live in or have traveled to the Upper Midwest, Canada or Alaska, you’ve probably seen a vehicle with an electrical power cord sticking out of the front bumper. These cords serve as a quick hook-up to AC power for electrical engine heaters, which are a must-have in extreme cold climates, especially for diesel engines. Engine heaters come in a variety of forms – from oil heaters for the dipstick, heating pads, or magnetic heaters that stick on the oil pan, to coolant heaters that go into the flow of antifreeze on the engine, or battery heating pads to keep your battery warm. If overnight temperatures are 0 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, you may consider an engine block heater and battery pad heater or battery thermal wrap. Both items attach to your car and then plug into an electrical outlet. Some engine block heaters come with timers so you can plan when your engine is ready to drive in the morning. For areas that get constant temperatures in the winter sub-zero, a permanent heater is generally a good practice. For areas that only see several days in sub-zero, using a magnetic heater that attaches to the oil pan overnight is often a good choice. For your battery, trying to hold a charge in very low temps can be draining and potentially harm your alternator. Starting a cold car with a cold battery the defroster, radio, seat warmers, or more puts a heavy strain on the electrical system. Help your battery and reduce this strain with a battery pad heater.

6. USE A FUEL ADDITIVE

Water in the fuel system can be an awful issue to deal with in extreme cold. What’s worse, is diesel fuel is prone to “gelling” in extreme cold temperatures as well. Using a fuel additive such as Heat in a gasoline engine, or Diesel 911 in diesel engines can help insure your fuel is protected.

 

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Determining the Cause of Oil Degradation

What could be causing our lube oil to degrade faster?

There are many causes that can result in the degrading of your lube oil. The most common are oxidation, thermal breakdown of the lube oil, micro-dieseling, additive depletion and contamination.

Oxidation

Oxidation is the reaction of oil molecules with oxygen molecules. It can lead to an increase in viscosity and the formation of varnish, sludge and sediment. Additive depletion and a breakdown in the base oil can also result. Once an oil starts to oxidize, you may see an increase in the acid number. In addition, rust and corrosion can form on the equipment due to oxidation.

Thermal Breakdown

The temperature of the lubricant should be a primary concern. Besides separating the moving parts within a piece of machinery, a lubricant must also dissipate heat. This means the lubricant can and will be heated above its recommended stable temperature. The Arrhenius rate rule for temperature states that for every 18 degrees F (10 degrees C), the chemical reaction doubles. In other words, for every increase of 18 degrees F for your oil, the life of the oil is cut in half. Keeping the oil as cool as possible when in use will extend its life and reduce the reaction of thermal breakdown.

Micro-dieseling

Also known as pressure-induced thermal breakdown (degradation), micro-dieseling is a process in which an air bubble transitions from a low-pressure region in a system to a high-pressure zone. This is very common in hydraulic systems. Micro-dieseling results in adiabatic compression of the air bubble within the oil, which then cooks the surrounding oil molecules, causing instant oxidation of those molecules.

Additive Depletion

Most additive packages in oil are designed to be sacrificial and used up during the life of the oil. Utilizing oil analysis to monitor additive levels is important not only to assess the health of the lubricant but also to provide clues as to what is causing the depletion of the additives.

Contamination

Contamination such as dirt, water, air, etc., can greatly influence the rate of lubricant degradation. Dirt containing fine metal particles can be a catalyst that sparks and speeds up the degradation process of your lubricant. Air and water can provide a source of oxygen that reacts with the oil and leads to oxidation of the lubricant. Here again, oil analysis can be helpful in monitoring your lubricant’s contamination levels.

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TOP 5 MOST COMMON VEHICLE PROBLEMS DURING WINTER

The first snowfall of the year is a cause of celebration for many folks. There’s just something special about seeing those pretty flakes flying for the first time in November or December. But, the onset of winter also means it’s a good time to ensure your vehicles maintenance is up-to-date. Freezing temperatures can lead to issues with your vehicles. Read on for the five most common problems—and how to prevent them this year

  1. Your battery may die in colder weather. It’s a good idea to have your battery tested every time there is a routine service (like an oil change) performed on the vehicle. It also helps to keep your car or truck in a garage during the winter months if possible.
  2. Fluids thicken. To stay ahead of this common winter problem, be sure to have your trusted auto technician regularly check your oil, antifreeze, power steering, brake and transmission fluids. Leaks can also occur; it helps to warm up your vehicles before driving them.
  3. Parts corrode. Road salt laid down to melt the ice and help prevent slide offs can stick to your car’s metal components. If it’s left there, it can cause these to corrode. Wash vehicles regularly to protect the undercarriage, brakes and wheel wells.
  4. Your tire pressure will drop. Most tires lose one pound per square inch (psi) for every 10 degrees F of temperature drop. Under-inflated tires do not perform well in icy weather, so it is crucial to check your tire pressure throughout the winter season.
  5. Spark plugs may fail. A bad spark plug, ignition component or clogged filter may cause your vehicle not to start, so it’s smart to check these ahead of the harshest driving conditions.
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COLD WEATHER CAR MAINTENANCE TIPS

As winter settles in, your vehicle may encounter unique challenges that could impact its performance if you’re not adequately prepared. Proactive maintenance tailored to cold weather conditions can ensure that your car remains resilient, providing a more seamless and confident driving experience throughout the winter months.

INSPECT YOUR BATTERY

Cold temperatures can be especially taxing on car batteries. Verify the charge and connections of your battery; if it’s several years old, consider having it tested or replaced before the onset of intense cold.

CHECK YOUR TIRES

Regularly monitor your tire pressure, as it tends to decrease in colder climates. Additionally, assess the tread depth to confirm it meets safety standards.

TOP UP FLUIDS

Maintain recommended levels of essential fluids such as antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, and oil. Antifreeze is particularly critical for engine protection in extremely cold weather.

EXAMINE THE LIGHTS

With shorter daylight hours in winter, it’s essential to inspect all your lights—headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. Replace any dim or burnt-out bulbs.

PROTECT YOUR WIPERS

Visibility is paramount during winter driving. Check your windshield wipers for signs of wear and tear, replacing them if needed. Consider using winter-grade wiper fluid to prevent freezing.

PREPARE AN EMERGENCY KIT

Anticipate unforeseen circumstances by keeping an emergency kit in your car, equipped with essentials like a blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, a shovel, and non-perishable snacks.

MAINTAIN A FULL FUEL TANK

Running your car on a nearly empty tank in cold weather can lead to moisture in the fuel lines, potentially causing issues. Keep your tank at least half full to minimize the risk of fuel line freeze-ups.

Investing time in cold weather car maintenance can significantly impact your vehicle’s winter performance. Adhering to these straightforward tips can mitigate common winter-related problems, ensuring a safer and more dependable driving experience as the temperature drops. Stay proactive, stay safe, and confidently navigate the winter roads.

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