AAA Tips for Frigid Weather

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 16, 2008 -- Preparing now for the frigid temperatures predicted over the weekend will help keep your vehicle on the road, advises AAA Michigan. Motorists can help keep their vehicles on the road by doing the following:

   -- Faulty batteries cause more car starting problems than any other
      factor.  At 0 degrees, a battery has 35 percent less starting power
      than in summer.  At minus 20, battery power drops 50 percent. If your
      battery is more than three years old, have a load test performed by a
      mechanic.

   -- Park your car in the garage. If you have no garage, put a tarp over
      the hood or park protected from prevailing winds. To keep doors from
      freezing shut, place a plastic trash bag between the door or window
      glass and the frame.

   -- Keep the fuel tank at least half-full to avoid fuel-line freeze-up.

   -- To avoid frozen door locks, buy a lubricant available in most auto
      supply stores.

   -- If you become snowbound, stay with your vehicle. It provides excellent
      shelter from the cold and makes it easier for rescuers to locate you.
      If you can start your engine, run it only enough to keep warm. Make
      sure the exhaust pipe is snow-free. Keep emergency supplies in the
      car, such as a cell phone, boots, hats, gloves, blankets, a "coffee
      can heater," flashlight and reflective triangle.

AAA and the Michigan Towing Association remind motorists to give tow truck operators a "brake." They're there to help you. Drive with care when a tow truck's there.