Pep Boys Says Winter Driving Problems Can be Avoided

    PHILADELPHIA--Oct. 17, 2001--Pep Boys , the nation's leading full-service automotive aftermarket retail and service chain, is working to educate Americans about the importance of being prepared for the upcoming driving season.
    The company believes many problems -- vehicles not starting, being stuck in inclement weather and roadside emergencies -- can be prevented with minimal investment and time spent.
    "People are becoming more dependent on their cars as a primary mode of transportation, which is why it's very important for motorists to get their vehicles in top shape," said Mitchell G. Leibovitz, Chairman and CEO of Pep Boys. "In the months ahead, changes in the weather can adversely affect the performance of a vehicle if it hasn't been properly maintained."
    Pep Boys' ASE-certified technicians say that preparation begins with having regular preventive maintenance performed on a vehicle. Motorists should have their vehicles' brakes, tires, lighting, belts and hoses, fluids and windshield wipers completely inspected and serviced, if necessary, to ensure that they are working properly for the upcoming holiday driving season.
    "Pep Boys believes that taking these small steps now will help keep your car going this winter," added Leibovitz. "Batteries and tires are two key elements that should be checked regularly. Vehicles should start easily even in the toughest conditions, and having properly inflated tires that are in good condition is a given."
    In addition, a highway emergency kit should be on hand because trouble can strike at any time. Items to keep in an emergency kit include a flashlight with spare batteries, battery jumper cables, flares and cones, and a "Help" sign. In colder climates, ice scrapers, snow brushes, window and lock de-icer and chains may come in handy.
    In the event of an overnight or mid-day snowstorm, keeping spares of those items in the home will help motorists avoid being frozen out of their vehicles. Other suggested items are a candle, matches and winter blanket, energy bars and water, a shovel and kitty litter or sand for traction. Basic and more extensive emergency kits can be found at any Pep Boys location.

    Pep Boys, which is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year, operates 628 stores and over 6,500 service bays in 36 states and Puerto Rico. Along with its vehicle repair and maintenance capabilities, the company also serves the commercial auto parts delivery market and is one of the leading sellers of replacement tires in the United States. Customers can find the nearest location by calling 1-800-PEP-BOYS or by visiting pepboys.com.