Preparation is the Key to Avoiding Summer Auto Problems, AAA Advises
7 July 1999
Preparation is the Key to Avoiding Summer Auto Problems, AAA Advises
ORLANDO--July 6, 1999--A quick and easy automotive checkup can help prepare a vehicle for the stress of high temperatures and increase reliability on long road trips, according to AAA."Summer heat is extremely tough on automobiles," said David Van Sickle, director of AAA Automotive and Consumer Information. "A few minutes spent checking your car's vital components can help you enjoy a summer of trouble-free driving."
AAA offers these simple maintenance tips: o To help prevent dangerous and inconvenient tire failure, examine
tires for uneven or excessive tread wear. Make sure all tires
including the spare are inflated properly. o With the engine off, look for worn or cracked belts and damaged,
blistered or soft hoses. Inspect antifreeze/coolant level and
condition, making certain the proper 50/50 mixture of water and
coolant is present. o Check motor oil level and condition. If driving under extreme
conditions -- such as very hot temperatures or towing a heavy
trailer -- switch to a motor oil with higher viscosity. Check the
owner's manual for specific oil recommendations. o A properly working air conditioning system also will help
motorists keep their cool in summer heat. If needed, have the air
conditioning serviced by a qualified technician, using the
refrigerant R-12 in older systems or R-134A in new or modified
air conditioners. Do not use non-approved substitute
refrigerants.
If you are not comfortable performing a vehicle inspection yourself, a qualified auto service facility -- such as those recognized by AAA's Approved Auto Repair program -- can conduct a thorough examination.
Because even the best maintained vehicle can develop a mechanical problem, it is critical that motorists plan in advance on how to handle breakdown situations safely, AAA advises.
The first rule when your vehicle begins to malfunction is not to panic. Signal and pull completely off the road onto the shoulder. Avoid any sudden or panic maneuvers.
Once on the side of the road, turn on your emergency flashers. Use extreme caution when exiting the vehicle. If necessary, exit from the passenger side of the vehicle to avoid the risk of being struck by traffic.
If you have a cellular phone or other communications device, call for help. Be ready to provide your exact location, including highway and mile marker or major landmark.
As soon as possible, set up reflectors, flares or other signal devices to alert passing motorists.
If waiting for assistance and the temperature permits, return to your vehicle and lock all doors and roll up windows. If someone other than a uniformed police officer stops, roll down the window only enough to ask them to telephone the police, your auto club or a service station.
Since surroundings and hazards vary, use your best judgement in deciding whether to stay with your vehicle or to go for help.
AAA is a not-for-profit federation of 90 clubs with 1,100 offices providing nearly 42 million members in the United States and Canada with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services.
AAA news releases can be downloaded from http://www.aaa.com/news
