Wednesday, November 4, 2015

Getting batteries and tires ready for wet and cold winter

Remember that routine auto care can save you big bucks by improving fuel economy, extending life of your vehicle and avoiding costly car repairs. A survey found that 82 percent of vehicle owners don't pay any attention to the condition of their batteries. The same survey also found that 78 percent wait until something goes wrong with tires.

Batteries and tires are particularly susceptible to the cold weather. According to AAA Automotive Research Center, a car battery loses about 35 percent of its strength when the surrounding temperature drops to 32 degrees and tire-inflation pressures decrease by 1 to 2 pounds per square inch for every 10-degree drop in temperature -- significant because even a small reduction in pressure can affect a tire's traction, handling and durability!