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Introducing Financial Planner |
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Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Winter |
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Mechanical failure, an inconvenience
anytime it occurs, can be deadly in the winter. Preventive maintenance
is a must. Besides, a well maintained vehicle is more enjoyable to
drive, will last longer, and could command a higher resale price.
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Some of the following tips can be
performed by a do-it-yourselfer; others require the skilled hands of an
auto technician. Always read your owner’s manual and follow the
manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. • Engine Performance - Get engine driveability problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a good repair shop. Cold weather makes existing problems worse. Replace dirty filters, fuel, PCV, etc. • Fuel - Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line. Note that a gas tank which is kept filled helps keep moisture from forming. • Oil - Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual (more often every 3,000 miles or so) if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent short trips. • Cooling System - The cooling system should be completely flushed and refilled as recommended. The level, condition and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended). Do it yourselfers...never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps and hoses should be checked by a pro. • Windshield Wipers - Replace old blades. If your climate is harsh, purchase winter blades to fight ice build-up. Stock up on windshield washer solvent. Carry an ice-scraper. (cont. on page 6) |
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On a cool evening, go ahead and turn on your furnace to make sure it works before you really need it! If you have a forced air system, you may briefly notice a burning smell. This is simply some of the dust in the ducts being burnt off by the first blast of hot air. While you’re checking out the furnace, make sure you change the air filters. Having your furnace cleaned each year will help protect you against puff back. This is another common winter insurance claim. Priceless items could be ruined. Be sure to have collectibles covered by a special scheduled personal property rider so the insurance company will pay you the value of the article.
If you do any home improvements, notify Brownell Insurance Center to be sure your home is properly insured to cover the replacement cost of your improvements.
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