4 tire tips for cold weather

Even the most experienced drivers can encounter challenges when driving on slick roads caused by ice and snow or dealing with the impact of colder temperatures during the winter months. In fact, inclement weather and sloppy road conditions are a factor in nearly half a million crashes each winter, according to research by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

Being safe on the road begins before you even slide into the driver’s seat. When the temperature drops, it’s important to pay special attention to your vehicle’s well-being, including checking the battery, wipers, coolant and other systems. One of your vehicle’s most important safety and performance features that should not be overlooked as winter weather sets in is its tires, which are the only direct link to the road below.

Consider these tips from the experts at Discount Tire to help ensure your tires are ready for winter.

Maintain Proper Pressure
The air inside your tires supports the weight of your car, and as the outdoor temperature drops, so does your tire pressure. For every 10-degree drop in ambient temperature, your tires can lose about 1 pound per square inch (PSI) of pressure. Keep a tire pressure gauge in your vehicle and check your tires at least once a month to ensure they are filled to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended inflation level, which can be found in the instruction manual or inside the driver’s door. Also, if your vehicle has a spare tire, remember to check its inflation level as well, as it may be different.

Many cars may have been sitting idle due to the pandemic. Activities being cancelled, working from home and more frequent dining in have kept more cars off the roads than usual. However, just because you haven’t been driving doesn’t mean your tires have stayed the same. Tires can still lose air pressure, around 1-2 PSI per month, even if they aren’t being used. Some tires may also vibrate after sitting for a while. These concerns can be solved with a quick tire checkup.

Check Your Tread
Tread depth helps determine a vehicle’s safe stopping distance. You can check your tires’ tread depth by sticking a penny upside-down in one of the grooves. If President Lincoln’s entire head is visible, it’s time to replace your tires to ensure you’re able to stop in time in conditions that typically accompany the winter months.

Invest in Winter Tires
In extreme cold, the tread rubber of all-season or summer tires can stiffen and lose the ability to provide sufficient traction. Winter tires are made from softer rubber to maintain pliability, and the tread design features thousands of extra traction edges for added grip. If you regularly drive in temperatures of 45 F – the same temperature at which you can begin to see your breath – or below, replacing all four tires with winter tires can help provide more control and deliver as much as a 25-50% increase in traction over all-season tires, which could be the margin you need to stop in time or turn to avoid trouble.

Rotate Often
To increase tread life, rotate your tires every 6,000 miles, or earlier if irregular or uneven wear develops. One easy way to remember is to have your tires rotated every other time you have your oil changed.

As you prepare your vehicle for safe winter travel, visit DiscountTire.com for more tips, a personalized tire guide and to find a location near you.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (Car in snow)

For many families, cars are huge, long-term investments second only to homes. Many are looking for ways to keep their cars on the road longer and make them safer to continue to serve their needs for years to come.

No matter what or where you drive, you can keep your current vehicle looking and performing its best – and even update it to make it safer – with these tips inspired by eBay Motors’ Parts of America tour, a cross-country tour exploring unique car cultures across America.

Choose the Right Tires
If it’s time to trade your tires in, take the time to learn what options are available for your vehicle. For those in fair weather states, summer performance tires offer the best possible fuel efficiency all year round. Families living in milder states with occasional snow may consider all-season tires that trade efficiency for safety on a variety of surfaces. Finally, when it comes to driving in a winter wonderland, there is no substitute for specialized rubber and tread patterns – purchase a dedicated set of snow tires to ensure you’re safe all winter long. No matter your situation, a new set of tires can maximize safety and extend the life of your car.

New Look, New Ride
One way to breathe new life into your ride is to take it to the next level aesthetically. With enthusiast communities growing around nearly every make and model of vehicle, it’s easy to find parts to make your vision a reality. One of the most eye-catching additions is a new set of wheels, and there are thousands of brands, styles and sizes to choose from for every car. The addition of front, side and rear aerodynamics kits, such as front splitters or rear spoilers, can give any ride that athletic look. Upgrading stock headlight and taillight units – many fitted with high-visibility LEDs – has never been easier.

Upgrade Your Tech
Safety and creature comforts alike can add to your enjoyment of your vehicle, even if you’ve been driving it for several years. Many cars can be updated with the latest and greatest features available in new rides, including high-tech infotainment equipped with digital assistants, front and rear cameras, parking sensors, blind spot warning and even collision avoidance systems. As families look to extend their cars’ lifespans, these technology upgrades can make driving comfortable and safer.

Power and Performance
While looks and tech can bring new experiences to your car, no change has quite the same impact as improving its performance. Options abound for those looking to improve the power and handling of their ride, such as replacing the exhaust system, lowering springs, adding a coilover kit or conducting a full suspension replacement.

Find Purpose-Built Parts
Whether you’re an amateur DIY-er looking to maintain and make small upgrades to your vehicle or an expert looking to make bigger modifications, finding parts and accessories that fit your vehicle is crucial. From hard-to-find performance modifications to made-to-fit cosmetic accessories, eBay Motors offers parts and accessories for nearly any vehicle, skillset and project. The app offers an entire catalog of inventory with 122 million live parts listings at any given time, giving auto enthusiasts the ability to purchase from an expansive inventory from the convenience of a smartphone. What’s more, features like Buy It Now, My Garage and Fitment Finder enable users to easily search parts and accessories, verify the items fit their vehicle and make immediate purchases for what they need.

Skip the Wait
The global supply chain continues to recover from disruptions that have stretched back several years, and many customers are feeling the strain when it comes time to upgrade, maintain or repair their vehicles. Some shops around the country are quoting waiting times of several months just to have the right part delivered for service. However, families can find relief and get their car back on the road quicker by looking online to source their much-needed parts. In fact, many technicians work with customers to have parts delivered directly to their shop from online sources to expedite and simplify the process.

Auto enthusiasts can find more helpful tips, tricks and resources at ebaymotors.com.

There’s a chill in the air, leaves are changing colors and falling from trees and there are more porches decorated for the seasons ahead than the eyes can see. The changing weather also means shorter days and longer nights where visibility becomes critical from sunset to sunrise. Now is the ideal time to ensure your vehicle is ready for the transition of seasons by checking key safety and visibility items.

While it can be picturesque, seasonal weather is often unpredictable, so it’s important to ensure your vehicle is ready for all conditions. Make sure your headlights, wiper blades and windshield washer fluid are ready for the challenges of driving during the fall and winter months ahead.

Windshield Wiper Blades
Start with checking the windshield wiper blades that work overtime in inclement weather. Flat blade windshield wipers are designed to hug the curve of your windshield and provide a clean wipe. Be sure to invest in a pair of new wiper blades to help give you a clear line of sight behind the wheel as the weather changes.

“To help keep drivers’ windshields clean regardless of the season, PEAK offers a full line of wiper blades that help keep drivers’ windshields clean regardless of the season,” automotive DIY expert Emily Reeves said. “It’s important to make sure you check your car manual to help determine which blade size is right for your vehicle and take into consideration the environmental elements you’ll face heading into fall and winter.”

Windshield Washer Fluid
Wiper blades alone won’t keep leaves, dirt and grime off of your windshield. Next, it’s crucial to check your windshield washer fluid to make sure its fresh and caters to seasonal needs. Be sure to do some research to determine what is best for both your vehicle and local climate, whether that be all-season, bug cleaning or de-icing. Seasonally appropriate windshield washer fluid can help ensure you’re prepared to fight everything from rain, bugs, tree sap and bird droppings from interfering with your visibility and allow you to drive more safely.

Headlights
A clean, clear windshield is nothing if you aren’t able to see more than 5 feet in front of you. Shorter days mean less sunlight and decreased visibility while on the road. Now is also a perfect time to check your headlights to ensure they aren’t dimming, which will reduce visibility, particularly at nighttime. There are options available to suit both drivers who prefer a more golden hue as well as a white halogen glow.

“There is nothing worse than a dim headlight when you’re driving at night, especially as our days get shorter,” Reeves said. “Whether you’re dealing with morning fog or chilly temperature drops, help maintain your visibility with PEAK Power Vision Headlamps, which include options that range from a golden hue to a white halogen glow.”

These tips can help ensure your vehicle is ready to tackle fall and winter weather conditions. For additional insights to maximize your car’s potential, and key products to use as you prepare for the road ahead, visit owi.com/retail/brands/peak-auto.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

The windshield wipers and lights on your car provide major elements of safety as you drive.

Lights are normal wear items that require periodic inspection and replacement. The lighting system provides nighttime visibility; signals and alerts other drivers; and supplies light for viewing instruments and the vehicle’s interior.

In addition to replacing dimming, rapidly blinking and non-functioning lights, the following tips from the experts at the Car Care Council can help keep you safe:

• Keep headlights, tail lights and signal lights clean. External dirt and debris can dim operational lights from being seen by others.
• Make sure that your headlights are properly aimed. Misaimed headlights blind other drivers and reduce your ability to see the road.
• Don’t overdrive your headlights; you should be able to stop inside the illuminated area, otherwise you are creating a blind crash area in front of your vehicle.
• If there is any doubt on whether or not your headlights should be on, turn them on. Lights not only help you see better in early twilight, they also make it easier for other drivers to see you.

For more tips and general maintenance information, visit www.carcare.org.

What you should know to get ready for winter

Conducting routine maintenance on your vehicle is necessary to maintain optimal performance and prevent costly repairs. As colder weather approaches, and with it the potential for treacherous road conditions, giving certain areas of your car special attention can also protect your safety.

The following tips will help you learn how to care for the systems and features most likely to affect your safety as winter approaches. Learn about the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair, and order a free copy of the council’s Car Care Guide, at www.carcare.org.

Brakes
The brake system is a car’s most important safety system. A faulty brake system may impede your ability to safely slow your vehicle in inclement driving conditions or avoid an accident. Brakes sustain normal wear and eventually need to be replaced for both performance and safety reasons. Ignoring routine maintenance and letting brake pads wear too thin can lead to costly rotor and drum replacement, in addition to compromising your ability to execute a sudden stop safely.

• Have your complete brake system thoroughly inspected annually and replace equipment as needed.
• If your car is pulling to the left or right, or if you hear odd noises when you apply the brakes, you should have your brakes inspected. Other warning signs include an illuminated brake warning light, brake grabbing, low pedal feel, vibration, hard pedal feel and squealing.
• Don’t overlook the parking brake, which also may require adjustment or replacement parts.

Wheels and Tires
When roads become wet or icy, the right wheels and tires can help ensure you have the traction you need to maintain control. Maintaining tire balance and wheel alignment reduces tire wear and improves handling and fuel economy. Tire replacement is necessary if the tread depth is below the minimum legal requirement, or if the sidewalls are severely cracked or punctured. In addition, normal wear and road conditions can take their toll on your car’s steering and suspension system and disrupt the alignment, which in turn reduces optimum handling.

• Use the “penny test” to check your tread; if you see Lincoln’s head above the tread, you are ready for new tires.
• Have your car’s alignment checked at least annually or at the first sign of improper handling or uneven wear.
• Check inflation pressure at least once a month (including the spare) and once per week in the winter.
• Rotate and balance tires every 6,000 miles to avoid accelerated wear on shock absorbers and struts.

Battery
Your battery should be securely mounted, with connections clean, tight and corrosion-free. If the battery is three years old or more, it should be tested and replaced if necessary.

Headlights
Headlights play a major role in safe driving; the chances for accidents increase if you can’t see or be seen. The lighting system provides nighttime visibility, signals and alerts other drivers, and supplies light for viewing instruments and the vehicle’s interior.

• If there is any doubt about whether or not your headlights should be on, turn them on.
• Keep headlights, tail lights and signal lights clean. External dirt and debris can dim operational lights, making it difficult to be seen by others.
• Make sure your headlights are properly aimed. If they aren’t, headlights blind other drivers and reduce your ability to see the road.
• Don’t overdrive your headlights. You should be able to stop inside the illuminated area; otherwise you are creating a blind crash area in front of your vehicle.
• Replace dimming, rapidly blinking or non-functioning lights immediately, but check first to ensure a loose or faulty fuse isn’t the source of the problem.

Windshield Wipers
The wiper system keeps excessive water, snow and dirt from building up on the windshield, maintaining clear visibility. Many factors can accelerate the replacement of wipers, including operating conditions, frequency of use, material and type of wipers and weather.

• In general, replace blades every six months or when cracked, cut, torn, streaking or chattering.
• Be aware that some vehicles have two washer fluid reservoirs. Check levels monthly and use washer fluid only; do not use water.

Maintenance Checklist
Whether you do it yourself or take your car to a professional service technician, the Car Care Council recommends these basic maintenance procedures to keep your vehicle operating at its best:

1. Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission, as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant.
2. Check the hoses and belts for signs of damage or wear.
3. Check the battery and replace if necessary.
4. Check the brake system annually and have the brake linings, rotors and drums inspected at each oil change.
5. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, damage and broken supports or hangers if there is an unusual noise.
6. Check the heating, ventilating and air conditioning system, as proper heating and cooling performance is critical for interior comfort and for safety reasons such as defrosting.
7. Inspect the steering and suspension system annually, including shock absorbers, struts and chassis parts such as ball joints, tie rod ends and other related components.
8. Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.
9. Check the wipers and lighting, including both interior and exterior lighting, and replace worn wiper blades so you can see clearly when driving during precipitation.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

Preserve the life of your vehicle and enhance overall safety with routine brake inspections on your vehicle.

The brake care experts at the Car Care Council recommend motorists watch for these signs:

1. Noise: Screeching, grinding or clicking noises when applying the brakes.
2. Pulling: Vehicle pulls to one side while braking.
3. Low pedal: Brake pedal nearly touches the floor before engaging.
4. Hard pedal: Must apply extreme pressure to the pedal before brakes engage.
5. Grabbing: Brakes grab at the slightest touch to the pedal.
6. Vibration: Brake pedal vibrates or pulses, even under normal braking conditions.
7. Light: Brake light is illuminated on your vehicle’s dashboard.

Brakes are a normal wear item on any vehicle and they will eventually need to be replaced. Factors that can affect brake wear include driving habits, operating conditions, vehicle type and the quality of the brake lining material. Understanding these warning signs can help you and your family stay safe on the road.

For more ways to enhance the safety of your vehicle, visit www.carcare.org.

Basic car care is the key to a long-lasting vehicle, improving its safety and dependability, says the Car Care Council. Following a routine maintenance program also makes financial sense since neglected vehicle care almost always means much higher costs down the line in the form of more extensive repairs or lost resale value.

The Car Care Council recommends 10 basic maintenance procedures to keep your car operating at its best for the long haul:

1. Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant.
2. Check the hoses and belts to make sure they are not cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or showing signs of excessive wear.
3. Check the battery and replace, if necessary. Make sure the connection is clean, tight and corrosion-free.
4. Check the brake system annually and have the brake linings, rotors and drums inspected at each oil change.
5. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, damage and broken supports or hangers if there is an unusual noise. Exhaust leaks can be dangerous and must be corrected without delay.
6. Check engine performance to deliver the best balance of power and fuel economy and produce the lowest level of emissions.
7. Check the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system as proper heating and cooling performance is critical for interior comfort and for safety reasons such as defrosting.
8. Inspect the steering and suspension system annually including shock absorbers, struts and chassis parts such as ball joints, tie rod ends and other related components.
9. Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.
10. Check the wipers and lighting so that you can see and be seen. Check that all interior and exterior lighting is working properly and replace worn wiper blades so you can see clearly when driving during precipitation.

For more information on vehicle maintenance, service interval schedules, questions to ask a technician and tips to drive smart and save money, the Car Care Council’s 80-page Car Care Guide can be ordered free-of-charge at www.carcare.org.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Work, school, errands and the other demands of family life put your vehicle at the center of it all, so when something goes wrong, you may find yourself overwhelmed. Finding a repair shop you can rely on can ease your frustration and get you back on the road.

“For most people, a vehicle is their second biggest investment next to a home,” said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council. “It makes sense to take the time to select an auto repair facility that will take the best care of that investment.”

Asking a few simple questions can help you identify an auto repair shop to properly care for one of your most valuable assets. The Car Care Council recommends exploring these topics before choosing where to have your car repaired:

• Does the business employ certified technicians? Credentials and affiliations are indicators of professionalism and the management’s commitment to training and education.
• Is the shop and customer waiting area clean and organized? Cleanliness and organization are signs of a well-run business.
• Are customers greeted and treated in a friendly and respectful manner? A simple phone call to the shop to inquire about their services can give you a glimpse into how they treat customers.
• Does the business provide a written estimate? The business should complete a written estimate and request your signature prior to starting any repairs on your car.
• What type of warranty does the shop offer? Most auto repair businesses offer a warranty on parts and labor, and the warranty is usually in writing or posted in the waiting area.
• Does the business have a list of satisfied customers or references that it is willing to give you? Satisfied customers and recommendations from family, friends and neighbors are helpful in finding a good shop.
• Is there a website you can visit? Many auto repair facilities have company websites that are worth checking out as they often include testimonials and additional information about the business.

For a video with more advice for selecting your auto repair shop, as well as information on the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair, visit www.carcare.org.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Avoid breakdowns with a pre-trip vehicle check

If your upcoming travel plans include a road trip, the last thing you want is unexpected car trouble to leave you stranded at the side of the road. A pre-trip vehicle check is the best way to ensure that your car is ready to get you to your destination.

“Taking steps to have auto repairs performed before long distance driving will not only give you peace of mind, but will also help avoid the inconvenience and potential safety hazards of breaking down when you’re miles from home,” said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council.

Protect your vehicle and your own safety by following these recommendations from the Car Care Council and complete a thorough pre-trip checklist before hitting the road:

• Check the brake system and make sure the battery connection is clean, tight and corrosion-free.
• Check filters and fluids, including engine oil, power steering and brake and transmission, as well as windshield washer solvent and coolant. Dirty air filters can waste gas and cause the engine to lose power.
• Check hoses and belts that can become cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or show signs of excessive wear. These are critical to the proper functioning of the electrical system, air conditioning, power steering and the cooling system.
• Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Underinflated tires reduce a vehicle’s fuel economy and uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.
• Check that the gas cap is not damaged, loose or missing to prevent gas from spilling or evaporating.

You can also make sure your vehicle is road-trip-ready by taking better care of your vehicle throughout the year using tools such as the Car Care Council’s free personalized schedule and email reminder service, which can help you drive smart, save money and make informed decisions about your car.

To access this convenient service, or to order a copy of the council’s Car Care Guide, which is available electronically or as a booklet you can store in your glove box, visit www.carcare.org.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

While many new drivers anticipate receiving their driver’s license, there are many responsibilities that come along with being a car owner, including basic maintenance.

“Most young people can’t wait to drive, but their car care education should begin well before their parents hand over the keys,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “Understanding the basics of car care before taking the wheel will help keep new drivers safer on the road.”

The experts with the Car Care Council offer these 10 car care inspection procedures so young drivers can better understand the importance of maintenance, enhancing the longevity and performance of their vehicle.

1. Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission as well as windshield washer solvent and coolant.
2. Check the hoses and belts to make sure they are not cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or showing signs of excessive wear.
3. Check the battery and replace if necessary. Make sure the connection is clean, tight and corrosion-free.
4. Check the brake system annually and have the brake linings, rotors and drums inspected at each oil change.
5. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, damage and broken supports or hangers if there is an unusual noise. Exhaust leaks can be dangerous and must be corrected without delay.
6. Schedule required maintenance to help the engine deliver the best balance of power and fuel economy and produce the lowest level of emissions.
7. Check the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system as proper heating and cooling performance is critical for interior comfort and for safety reasons such as defrosting.
8. Inspect the steering and suspension system annually including shock absorbers, struts and chassis parts such as ball joints, tie rod ends and other related components.
9. Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.
10. Check the wipers and lighting so that you can see and be seen. Check that all interior and exterior lighting is working properly and replace worn wiper blades so you can see clearly when driving during precipitation.

For more resources, visit www.carcare.org.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images