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(ARA) – Skating, sledding, roasting marshmallows by the fire. These are the traditional activities most people associate with winter, not sitting alone on the side of the road stuck in a broken down car. But if you’re among the estimated 70 percent of Americans who, according to the Car Care Council, fail to get their cars winterized, instead of enjoying fun times with friends and family, you could find yourself stuck.
Winter can be hard on a car, particularly one that’s not ready for it. So before venturing out in this season’s first snow storm, make an appointment with your mechanic and bring along this checklist:
* Make sure all filters -- oil, gas and air -- are in good condition.
* Check coolant (antifreeze) and thermostat to ensure proper engine warm up. Note: Coolant should be changed every two years, unless you're using the new types of extended life coolants, which last about five years.
* Be certain the heater and defroster are working properly.
* Check to see that lights work and headlights are properly aimed.
* Check tire tread depth and tire pressure; consider special tires if snow and ice are a problem in your area.
That should cover what needs to be done by a mechanic, but there are precautions car owners should take to protect their car’s interior and exterior from the wear and tear of winter as well. Regular washing and waxing will help maintain your car's appearance. To protect your car’s interior from all the snow, slush and salt you’ll be tracking in, it would be a good idea to replace the floor mats that came with your car with a more hardy set.
If your vehicle will be on light duty this winter, simply shuttling you and your family to work and school and back and forth on errands, Nifty “Catch-All” floor mats would suffice. Made of heavy-duty molded thermoplastic material, they offer a moisture barrier, stain resistance, and a raised lip to contain spills.
If you will be using your vehicle for work, or to transport sporting equipment like hockey skates or skis, your car’s interior will benefit from the rugged layer of protection offered by “Catch-All Xtreme” mats. They too are molded for a perfect fit, but also have a professional slip resistant surface designed to minimize shifting cargo or objects and have a raised outer wall that traps dirt and moisture.
“Catch All” mats are available in carpet colors that are matched to your vehicle’s interior. “Catch-All Xtreme” mats come in tan, gray and black. They are available at automotive parts and accessories stores across the country. To find the location closest to you, log on to www.lundinternational.com, click on “Find a Dealer” then select the Nifty brand. Courtesy of ARA Content