Page 16 - Explore Your AAA – AAA Southern Pennsylvania – March/April 2020

Automotive
Months of wintry weather can wreak havoc on your vehicle, paving the way for future breakdowns. Spring is the perfect time to help your car recover from winter and prepare it for the rigors of summer driving. A quick car checkup can help you prepare for the stress of summer temperatures
and increase reliability on those long road trips.
1. Check fluid levels
Your windshield washer fluid is probably running low at this point, so when you fill up your wiper fluid, inspect the rest of your vehicle’s fluids (such as oil, anti-freeze, coolant), and top them off as necessary.
2. Check under the hood
With the engine turned off, inspect for worn or cracked belts or worn, cracked or blistered soft hoses. Get your battery tested and replaced if necessary.
3. Inspect the tires
Examine your tires for uneven or excessive tread wear. Make sure all tires, including the spare, are properly inflated. Having the proper tire pressure can maximize your gas mileage and save wear and tear on your tires. It’s a good idea to check your wheel alignment, as the rough, winter roads can cause serious damage to your tires.
4. Wash and clean
After all the salt build up, road grime and debris winter driving has bestowed upon you, your car deserves a good thorough cleaning — both inside and out.
5. Prepare for the unthinkable
Even properly maintained vehicles can breakdown. Make sure your car is equipped with an emergency kit containing items
like a flashlight with extra batteries, flares
or reflector triangles, jumper cables, and first-aid kit.
Getting your vehicle check in the spring can prevent trouble in the summer. Finding a good repair shop is easier than you think with AAA’s Approved Auto Repair (AAR) program. Locate your local AAR facility at AAA.com/AAR.
MECHANICS
YOU CAN TRUST
WHY USE AAA APPROVED AUTO REPAIR SHOPS?
Stringent requirements for industry certifications, customer satisfaction, training and tools
24,000 mile/24-month nationwide warranty at over 7,000 locations
AAA will intervene and investigate problems on behalf of AAA members
Discount on labor charges for AAA members*
Find a trusted shop near you:
AAA.com/AAR
*Resctrictions may apply.
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MARCH/APRIL 2020