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(NC)-Bone chilling temperatures, snow storms and icy roadways are just a few seasonal characteristics that have some Canadians considering relocation when winter hits.
And while there is not a lot that can be done to help those that despise the cold weather, the hassle of preparing your vehicle can be a lot easier with a few winter fighting tips from the experts at Honeywell CPG.
DO:
. Get rid of the light weight blues (washer fluid that is). Some plain blue washer fluids don't add up to much more than water and a little bit of solvent, so they can freeze on your windshield when the temps go south. Instead, convert your first tank of summer wash to winter wash by topping off with Prestone De-Icer Windshield Washer Additive with Dirt Blocker. It can clear light ice, improve driving visibility and help prevent dangerous refreeze.
. Change your oil. Motorists that travel short trips of less than 10 miles when outside temperatures remain below freezing should follow a severe maintenance oil change schedule. While the recommended change interval is 5,000-8,000 kilometers, a severe schedule may require more frequent oil and filter changes. You should consult your owner's manual to learn the interval schedule that works best for your vehicle, and be sure to use a more premium filter. The Fram Tough Guard oil filter may be a good choice.
. Fight the freeze-over. If you are not a huge fan of the exercise that goes into excessive scraping, Prestone Windshield De-Icer spray with a scraper top can quickly help melt frost and ice fast as well as help reduce dangerous refreeze.
. Prepare for the worst. It could be devastating if you get stranded in cold temperatures. Carry an emergency kit that includes a cell phone, spare jacket, blanket, extra gloves, scarves and water for yourself, and extra fluids for your car.
DON'T:
. Be a speed demon. Even with a stellar driving record, keep in mind that in slippery conditions your car will not be able to stop or turn as quickly as it would on dry pavement.
. Mix hot and cold. Pouring hot water on cold glass to clear your windshield could crack it. Consider spraying your car's windows with Prestone Ice and Frost Shield Vehicle Glass Treatment, also known as "the night before" frost blocker. When sprayed on the night before, the formula imparts an overnight barrier on the glass, thus reducing the adhesion of the ice and frost to the windshield and other glass surfaces, making it easier to clear ice the windows.
. Leave your gas tank on empty. During winter, it is important to keep your gas tank at least half full. Filling up your tank helps decrease the chances of moisture forming in the fuel lines and possibly freezing.
You can learn about other ice-fighting technology that can help improve your winter driving season online at www.prestone.com.