(ARA) – The cold snap has arrived and the stormy winter days and dark evenings are here. It is time to prepare your car for the winter months to minimize the risk of a breakdown. Such breakdowns could be avoided by carrying out regular checks, so motorists are advised to follow these steps to minimize the risk.
“There’s nothing worse than breaking down on a cold winter night, stranded on the side of the road,” says Jim Fults, auto insurance leader at Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company. “A few basic and regular checks can dramatically reduce the risk of getting stuck on the road.
“We urge motorists to set aside some time to carry out a series of simple checks,” says Fults. “Some may seem like common sense, but you’ll be surprised at how many drivers forget after the summer. For example, it is crucial to ensure all your lights are clean and working properly. Always replace any broken bulbs immediately. If you don’t, you will not only find it difficult to see the road clearly, you run the risk of not being seen by other drivers.”
Make sure you minimize the risk of breakdown this winter by following some tips from Fireman’s Fund:
Fireman’s Fund winter auto safety tips:
* Get your car checked: A professional check is worth it, for added peace of mind.
* Check your tires: Rain, snow and ice can make roads lethal. Check your tire tread and make sure the air pressure is okay.
* Light the way: Keep lights clean and make sure they are working.
* Get charged up: A dead battery is the main cause of breakdowns, so get it checked and replaced if necessary.
* Cooling system: Ensure this is checked and that the anti-freeze content meets the manufacturer requirements.
* Wipers: Check windscreen wipers and replace if they fail to clear the screen correctly.
* Fuel: Ensure you have more than enough for your journey.
Be prepared and take the following items with you:
* A fully charged cell phone
* Shovel in case of snow
* De-icer and a scraper for windows
* Blanket and warm clothing in case the worst happens
* Sturdy shoes or rubber boots
* Some snacks, such as energy bars
* Extra fuel
In addition, it is a good idea to put together an emergency winter survival kit so that you are prepared should you breakdown. Remember to include a flashlight, blanket, ice scraper and a first aid kit.

Professional preventative maintenance can help keep your car on the road to safety and savings.

(NAPS)—A good way to drive down the cost of keeping your car is to have a professional check it regularly, at least seven ways:
1.    Check Tires. Tire wear is a good indicator of how the steering and suspension are performing. Excessive edge, center or shoulder wear suggest other maintenance is needed. Check air pressure on all tires, including the spare, as incorrect tire pressure can cause tires to wear prematurely. Tread and sidewall areas should be inspected for uneven or irregular wear and replaced if worn or damaged.
2.    Check Brakes. Pads, shoes, rotors, calipers, fittings, brake hardware and parking brake should be checked. If your brakes squeal, it may be time for replacements.
3.    Check Fluid Levels. Engine oil should be changed or replenished and all vehicle fluids and lubricants checked and changed at factory-recommended intervals. Low or dirty fluids can damage your engine.
4.    Check Engine Belts, Ho­ses and Fuel Filter. In today’s vehicles, a single drive belt provides power to many engine accessories and hoses carry vital fluids under high pressure. Prevent a breakdown or serious engine damage by replacing belts and hoses at recommended intervals.
5.    Change Air Filter. The air filter is designed to protect your engine from airborne contaminants. Poor airflow to the engine inhibits performance and can mean greater fuel consumption. A new air filter lets clean, unrestricted air flow into the engine for proper performance and longer car life.
6.    Check Battery. Whether for starting up in the morning or running the air-conditioning and other accessories, the battery is critical. Corroded terminals or a bulging or cracked case are signs it’s been subjected to extreme conditions. Each battery has a limited “life” to it. Test yours and replace it if necessary.
7.    Check Wiper Blades. Worn wiper blades can affect your ability to see the road and vehicles in front of you. For greater visibility and smooth operation, Mopar all-season wiper blades are built for the long haul and feature a strong, all-metal superstructure for durable, reliable performance. An innovative wear indicator gradually turns from black to green to yellow as the blades wear. Mopar is Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand.
According to Mopar’s Jim Sassorossi, “Performing preventative maintenance is critical for maintaining the safety and performance of your vehicle. Our technicians have the expertise, tools and factory-backed parts for these vehicles. And they work on them every single day.”
Learn More
More information and a complete list of accessories and performance parts are at www.mopar.com.

An RV that’s mechanically sound will be less apt to break down. Do an inspection every time you get behind the wheel.

(NAPS)—Whether you are a rookie or a veteran when it comes to the pleasures of traveling in a recreational vehicle—or RV—GEICO professionals say that a review of the basics can help to keep you on the road to safety. Here are some tips:
Realize your size. Many road mishaps occur because of an RV’s additional size and weight. For instance, operators accidentally drive under an overpass without enough clearance because they forget about the additional height.
Know your RV’s height and keep it handy. Also know the clearances of the bridges and tunnels along your route—especially on back roads. A road atlas specifically for RVers or semi drivers can help.
Maintenance is important. An RV that’s mechanically sound will be less apt to break down. Be meticulous about maintenance. Make a pretrip checklist and do an inspection every time you get behind the wheel.
A proper maintenance program should include:
• Inspecting all belts and hoses for cracking and replacing where required;
• Checking headlights, brake lights and turn signals;
• Making sure your tires have the correct air pressure and sufficient tread depth.
Have a plan if you do break down. Carry your cell phone and know the emergency numbers to call. Also, leave your itinerary with relatives or friends so they can contact you in case of emergency.
Always wear safety belts. Passengers should be belted in also. Laws don’t require RVs to have safety belts in all areas where passengers can sit, but it is better to be safe, so buckle up!
Avoid these common causes of RV accidents:
• Fires that occur from leaking LP gas (propane);
• Tire blowouts due to overloading or to under inflated or worn-out tires;
• RV awnings and steps—Make sure RV outside steps are put away before traveling. Store them during travel and questionable weather;
• Clearance and height driving mistakes—RVs hitting bridges and gas station overhangs;
• Overloading—uneven weight can cause restricted braking and steering problems.
Make sure your coverage is up to date and fits the RV lifestyle. Not all insurance companies understand the needs of RV drivers, so it is wise to pick one that specializes in RV coverage. For example, GEICO has a dedicated team of RV insurance agents who are experts in issuing and servicing insurance policies for all types of RVs.
To learn more, visit the websites at www.rvsafety.com and www.geico.com/information/safety/rv/

(NAPS)—Cars, trucks, buses and even bikes and motorcycles may soon be able to “talk” to each other to detect dangerous situations and help drivers avoid crashes before they happen.
“Connected vehicles will alert drivers if another vehicle is about to run the red light, when a car in their blind spot drifts too close for comfort, if there’s a crash ahead or even if the next bridge is getting icy,” explained Scott Belcher, president and CEO of the Intelligent Transportation Society of America, who noted that vehicles can also be equipped with pre-emptive braking systems to help drivers slow down.
In addition, connected vehicles can provide real-time information and navigation to avoid traffic, find better routes, check transit schedules, locate and reserve a parking space and pay tolls.
To find more good ideas, the Research and Innovative Tech­nology Administration launched the Connected Vehicle Technology Challenge, a national com­petition seeking ideas for ways to use connectivity between vehicles to make transportation safer, green­er and easier. More at www.Challenge.gov and www.itsa.org.

(ARA) – Remember when $4 seemed like an outrageous amount to spend on a gallon of gasoline? Now that number doesn’t seem so far-fetched. While you can’t do anything to control the unrest in the Middle East or oil rig explosions that could lead to gas prices spiking at a moment’s notice, there are a few things you can do to help ease the pain of high gas prices.
While buying a more fuel-efficient car might be an option for some, new and used cars that get more miles per gallon tend to be more in demand – and more expensive – when gas prices are high. If a new car isn’t an option for you, implementing the following changes can help ensure that you get the most from the fuel in your gas tank:
* Keep the gas you buy in your car. When gas prices are low, stealing gas would likely be more trouble than it’s worth, but when prices are high, it’s not uncommon for thieves to siphon gas from vehicles, especially those with larger tanks. Adding a locking gas cap can be done for much less than the cost of a tank of gas. In addition to preventing theft, locking fuel tank caps can also prevent anyone from tampering with your gas tank.
* Keep your tank full. While you’re looking to reduce the amount of gasoline you are using, constantly running your car with the tank close to empty can wear down your fuel pump. “The gasoline in the tank keeps the fuel pump cool. Take away the gas and the fuel pump runs hot and has a shorter life,” says Tom Taylor, engineer and vice president of RockAuto.com. If you have an older car that has accumulated dirt and rust at the bottom of the tank, keeping a full tank can help your fuel burn cleaner.
* Keep your car in shape. Keeping your engine properly tuned improves fuel efficiency by an average of 4 percent and repairing a major issue like a faulty oxygen sensor could improve efficiency by up to 40 percent, according the U.S. Department of Energy. The RockAuto.com parts catalog has oxygen sensors from $10 to more than $100 depending on the car,” says Taylor. Especially if you’re a do-it-yourselfer, you could quickly recoup the cost of an oxygen sensor or other repair after as little as one tank of gas through improved fuel economy.
* Keep your tires inflated properly. Keeping your tires at the optimal level not only keeps you safer, but can improve your gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent, according to the Department of Energy. Your owner’s manual should tell you the proper psi (pounds per square inch) levels for your vehicle.
* Drive for optimal gas mileage. How you drive can affect how much gas you use. Most cars run at peak efficiency at around 60 mph, with fuel economy decreasing sharply when traveling faster. Aggressive driving with rapid acceleration and slowing will also have a negative effect on your fuel economy.
* Reduce weight and drag. Getting rid of items such as roof equipment when they aren’t being used can help your car become more aerodynamic and run more efficiently. Keeping unnecessary items in your car, especially if they are heavy, can also make your car work harder and use more fuel than it needs to.
By adding up the small savings gained by each of these tips, you can really notice a difference on how much you are paying at the pump, especially over a long period of time.

Choosing the right filter for your vehicle

(ARA) – In today’s economy it’s more important than ever to take care of your vehicle. Engine maintenance is critical when extending the life of your vehicle. There is a lot of information available about the differences in oils and other maintenance components, but what no one explains is what to look for in an oil filter.

The oil filter serves as the lifeblood for your engine. It is important because it cleans the oil and is capable of filtering high volumes of oil with relatively low restriction. How do you know which filter to choose and what are the differences between styles? Here is some information to help you decide.

The shell is the outside casing you see when the filter is installed. It keeps your filter safe during the wear and tear on your vehicle, and protects it from punctures.

The media is the filtering component. Depending on the level of filter you chose, media can be described as a maze of cellulose, synthetics and/or microfibers that remove the harmful debris from your engine oil.

The core is the part of the filter that helps the filter keep its shape and prevents it from collapsing under extreme pressure. It is inserted inside of the filter media and can be made of a variety of materials.

The base plate is the threaded component of the oil filter. In addition to providing the threaded attachment for the filter, it directs the oil flow through the filter.

The gasket is the rubber ring that seals the filter to the engine’s oil filter base. This gasket is typically made of flexible rubber.

Now that you understand the components of an oil filter, it’s easy to see that not all oil filters are the same. There are some key differences in the quality of oil filter you are purchasing.

Most “economy” filters are very basic and last for a limited time in comparison to the higher end filters. These filters use media of natural wood fibers to sort out the debris in your oil.

The “better” filter contains media that is a blend of fibers. The majority of the fibers are cellulose with a minimal blend of synthetic fibers that enhance the media strength and efficiency performance.

The “best” or premium level of filters use micro-glass filter technology. Advanced micro-glass oil filters are designed to extend the life of vehicle and equipment. In addition to superior filtration media, the other internal and structural components are of higher quality materials, making for easier installation and removal, as they are much less prone to crush while installing or removing. These oil filters can extend change intervals up to 12,000 miles.

Vehicles still under warranty should follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended filter change intervals.

A vehicle history report can help used-car buyers avoid flood-damaged vehicles.

(NAPS)—It’s important to steer clear of used cars that were waterlogged in floods, hurricanes and other storms. Experts say over 75 percent of declared federal disasters are related to floods. The vehicles can turn up in areas thousands of miles from where the damage occurred, and unknowing consumers who purchase a water-damaged auto from a dishonest seller may have little recourse.

A Growing Concern
It’s estimated that the number of waterlogged wrecks on the market has doubled in recent years, despite the fact that most flood-damaged vehicles are writtten off by insurance companies. Indeed, many of the cars make their way back to the used-car market, rebuilt and disguised as ordinary used cars with clean titles. Fortunately, there are ways to spot the telltale signs of a flood-damaged car. Carfax offers these tips:

Look Around
Check the trunk, dashboard and glove compartment for silt, mud, rust and other signs of water damage. You should also examine upholstery and carpeting closely. If it doesn’t match the interior or fits loosely, it may have been replaced. Discolored, faded or stained materials might indicate water damage.

Run A Test
Test the interior and exterior lights, as well as the windshield wipers, turn signals, DC power outlet, radio, heater and air conditioner several times to be certain they work. Also, turn the ignition key and make sure the accessory and warning lights and gauges work properly. Be certain the ABS and air bag lights come on, too.

The Nose Knows
Smell the interior of the car to check for musty odors. It’s also smart to flex some of the wires beneath the dashboard. Wet wires become brittle upon drying and may crack.

Get A Second Opinion
Bring the car to a trusted mechanic for a prepurchase inspection. Always get a vehicle checked before handing money over.

Know Your History
Ask to see a detailed vehicle history report. Thousands of dealers provide them free—just say, “Show Me the Carfax.” A Carfax Vehicle History Report can reveal any number of hidden problems from a vehicle’s past, including flood titles. Used-car shoppers worried about flood damage can also check for free at flood.carfax.com.

Here’s a cool idea: Be sure your car’s battery is in good condition before venturing out into the cold.

(NAPS)—Preventing a frozen battery in the winter is easier than you may think if you take some time to check out the situation before nasty weather sets in.
To ensure that your car battery starts dependably, no matter how outrageous the weather, Interstate Batteries cold weather expert Gale Kimbrough offers some simple tips to protect your car battery against severe cold conditions:
Test the starting power: The cold weather can dramatically reduce a battery’s available starting power, so have the vehicle’s starting and charging system tested every three months or every oil change.
Charge the battery: Use a battery charger to maintain charge levels and keep the battery in good condition. If the battery is more than three years old, it should be tested to make sure it can survive the coldest winter months.
Test the battery: Have the battery tested before taking a long trip or after it’s been recharged.
Inspect the battery cables, posts and fasteners: Preparing your car for the winter doesn’t end with the battery itself. You need to inspect your battery cables, posts and fasteners. Make sure the cables are in good shape and are secured firmly to the battery. Corrosion keeps power from flowing freely from the battery, reducing the power that is available to start the car.
Keep it clean: Clean the battery terminals with a wire brush or spray some battery cleaner on the terminals.
In just 30 seconds, Interstate All Battery Center locations can provide motorists with a free printout analysis of their vehicle’s battery condition—from projected battery life to cranking performance. It’s important to have the battery and electrical system checked by a professional. Sometimes the naked eye cannot detect the presence of corrosion because it is hidden under the metal between the connection and the post.
A fully charged battery is the best defense against cold weather and vehicle nonstarts because engines require more cranking amps in colder weather. The cold also reduces a battery’s efficiency, reducing its charge acceptance and ability to start an engine. An engine at 32 degrees Fahrenheit often demands more than 150 percent cranking power from the battery than it does at 80 degrees. At 0 degrees Fahrenheit, it can be 250 percent.
For more information, visit www.interstatebatteries.com.

(NewsUSA) – While we might slip up on our New Year’s resolutions at times, this year you can resolve to take better care of your car all year. Firestone Complete Auto Care offers the following tips for winter vehicle maintenance to get you started!
*Be proactive. Winter only magnifies existing problems like pings, hard starts,  sluggish performance or rough idling. Make sure your vehicle is mechanically sound before the temperature dips and the streets get icy. Make certain the engine is in peak condition. Also check the cooling system. Coolant should be replaced per the vehicle manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.
*Be on schedule. Have your motor oil changed regularly. Use the specified weight and grade of oil recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. Also make sure to check that the heating/defrosting system is working properly.
*Be prepared. Prepare for potential winter emergencies by using your trunk as a storage place for emergency items. Important items to have on hand include: a properly inflated spare tire; ice scraper; windshield de-icer; flashlight; blanket; extra clothes; bottled water; cell phone car charger and non-perishable snacks.
*Be on the defensive. Take a defensive position against winter driving conditions, and take care of your tires. Once it gets cold, tire tread and pressure should be checked weekly. A tire’s PSI measurement can drop one pound for every 10-degree drop in temperature. If snow and ice are a problem in your area, consider installing winter tires, which are specially designed to grip slick roads.
*Be diligent. Use common sense during adverse road conditions. Reduce your driving speed, and increase your following distance in hazardous winter weather. If you get stuck in the snow, don’t spin your tires — this can overheat them and possibly cause damage. Use sand, gravel, kitty litter, an asphalt shingle or other gritty items to help your tires gain traction when stuck.

With fewer daylight hours in the fall and winter, it’s important to make sure your vehicle can be seen by others and your visibility is not compromised. Fall Car Care Month in October is also National Headlight Safety Month, the perfect time for a safety inspection of your vehicle’s lights and wipers, according to the Car Care Council.

“As the days get shorter, your vehicle’s lighting system becomes more important to the safety of you and your passengers,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “From the driver’s seat you may not notice a light that isn’t working, so be sure to inspect your car’s lights at every oil change. At the same time, inspect and replace wiper blades so you can see clearly when wet weather hits.”

Lights and wipers play a major role in safe driving, as the chance of an accident increases if you can’t see or be seen. The wiper system keeps excessive water, snow and dirt from building up on the windshield, maintaining clear visibility. The lighting system provides nighttime visibility, signals and alerts other drivers, and supplies light for viewing instruments and the vehicle’s interior.

Lights are normal wear items that require periodic inspection and replacement. In addition to replacing dimming, rapidly blinking and non-functioning lights, the following tips 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. Miss-aimed 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.

Many factors can accelerate the replacement interval of wipers, including operating conditions (winter conditions are tough on wiper blades), frequency of use, material and type of wipers and sunny weather. In fact, wiper blades can deteriorate faster and need more frequent replacement in desert states.

Some states have laws that require the headlights to be on with the wipers. If you detect any problem with your car’s lights or wipers, have them checked out at once. Keep your vehicle’s lights properly cared for to help ensure a safer ride and keep the road ahead well lit.