Northeast News
Jan. 19, 2011

Winter can wreak havoc on a vehicle, which means it’s vital to winterize your car or truck.

To prevent breakdown fiascos, Craig DeLong of Craig’s Auto on St. John Aveneue offers Northeast News readers some tips.

• Check your antifreeze. Antifreeze levels and the right mix for your vehicle are vital in wintry conditions.

• Check your tires and tire pressure.  For best performance, make sure there is enough air in your tires and use all-season tires. Pickups with two-wheel drive may need sandbags in the back for additional tire traction, DeLong said.

• Use quality wiper blades and washer fluid.

“Salt from other cars on windows will splash up on your windshield and you need to be ready for it,” he said.

• Take the time to warm up your car to prevent harm to your transmission. The colder it is outside, the longer it will take the car to warm up, he said.

• Make a safety kit. The kit should include items like blankets, gloves, kitty litter or sand for weight and traction, a shovel and snacks and beverages.