Warm Answers To Cold Questions (NAPSA)—Although your car 6, 0 would look silly in a parka, there are things to do to keep it running well in cold weather. The follow- ing are some common questions — the answers will help to keep both you and your car healthy andsafe: Q. I’m going on a long drive to one of the big ski resorts. Are there things I should do to prepare mycar? A. Preparing an emergency kit is great for winter driving—espe- cially before a long drive on wind- ing roads. Bring a shovel, flares, jumper cables, blankets, water, large flashlight, portable radio, batteries, work gloves, towel, first aid kit and some sandorkitty litter for emergency traction. Before you leave, inspect all of your exte- rior lights to make sure they are all working. Q. Are myall-season tires okay for driving in the snow? A. Manyall-season tires are designed for both wet and dry weather conditions. However, many tire manufacturers recom- mend a set of four winter tires for snowy weather. If you don’t have much snow in your area, you should at least have your treads checked at a tire retailer or a Jiffy Lube service center, where they will do it for free. Or, place a penny in the tread with Lincoln’s head upside down and facing you. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it is time to replace yourtires. Q.I tend to let the gas tank hurt its performance and possibly cause fuel system damage. Q. Should I drive differently in snow oricy conditions? A. The best treatment for roadside emergencies is prevention. Hereis a quick coursein driving on snow and ice: Go steady andslow, avoid jerking the wheel, give your- self extra braking room, and sign up with an auto club that provides emergency roadside assistance. Q. Are there any other things I need to do for my car for the winter besides making sure the antifreeze and battery are in good shape? A. You're on the right track, as your antifreeze fluid should be fresh and the battery fully charged. If your battery is older than two years old, bring it to a Jiffy Lube service center. The technicians can check the battery level drift pretty low during as well as all the vital fluids, belts and hoses, wiper blades, and windshield washerfluid. It’s also the right place to beif it’s time for your 3,000-mile oil change. at least half full during the winter. day’s forecast and thinking about what coat to wear, remember that your car feels the cold, too. Treat it right, and it can take you through rough weather for many the winter. The fewer trips to the gas station—the less ’!m stepping out into the cold! Is this all right? A. Always keep your gas tank The more air that’s in the tank, the more condensation can form, adding water to the gas. This can So when you're listening to the more years to come.
