Tag Archives: change oil

Winter Maintenance – Don’t Let Your Battery Leave You Out in the Cold

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With cold weather right around the corner, Autumn is the best time to schedule a battery test.

Old Man Winter can be tough on any vehicle, but the battery, specifically, takes a beating. Your vehicle’s battery loses 33 percent of its power when the temperature dips below freezing, and over 50 percent of its power when the temperature falls below zero.

Expert Advice on Winterizing Your Battery

  • Seek Professional Help—for your batteries, that is. These aren’t your typical AA batteries, so it’s important to have us check the battery and electrical system. Sometimes the naked eye cannot detect the presence of corrosion because it is hidden under the metal between the connection and the post.
  • Protect Your Battery from Mr. Freeze. The cold weather can dramatically reduce a person’s energy level and it can do the same to a battery’s available starting power. It’s a good idea to have your car’s starting and charging system tested every six months.
  • Charge It. Use a battery charger to maintain charge levels and keep the battery in good condition. A fully charged battery will not freeze until -76°F; however, a fully discharged battery could start to freeze at 32°F.
  • Small Maintenance Chores are Necessary. 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 your cables are in good shape and are secured firmly to the battery.

Winterization Checklist
To maximize protection against cold-weather conditions, now’s the time to make sure you not only winterize your battery, but your vehicle too.

We recommend all vehicle owners to check the following items for a safe winter:

  • Replace worn windshield wipers every 6 months.
  • Refill washer fluid often. Winterize with a 50/50 mix of washer fluid and water.
  • Make sure the heater and defroster are in good working condition.
  • Inspect all bulbs and lights for proper operation.
  • Check condition of tires, including the spare.
  • Measure your tire air pressure regularly.
  • Change oil every 3,000 miles.
  • Examine exhaust system for leaks.
  • Flush and refill cooling system with a 50/50 mixture.
  • Check drive belts, clamps and hoses.

Everyone should carry emergency gear such as gloves, boots, tire chains, battery booster pack, cell phone, blankets, flares, flashlight and some high-energy, non-perishable snacks.

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles: Summer Road Trip Preparation

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Each year, the summer months bring a slew of adventurous opportunities including road trips, family outings and visits to special destinations like the beach and state parks. With these fun-filled plans in motion, the last thing you are going to want to be worrying about is car or handicap accessible vehicles maintenance. However, as the hottest season of the year, summer is also one of the most trying on your vehicle. Even if you are not exactly handy with a wrench, a quick trip to the mechanic can help you follow these trip-saving tips and make sure you reach your destination this summer.

Check tires.
Summer temperatures can significantly affect the pressure levels on your tires. Driving with an under or overinflated tire runs the risk of the tire bursting, really putting a damper on your vacation plans. To avoid getting stuck roadside, be sure to check your tire pressure regularly. Consult your car’s manual for the optimal range of pressure for your vehicle, and ensure that none of your tires falls below or over those numbers. While you are at it, also check the pressure of your spare tire, as that can make a big difference if you are in a bind.

Change oil.
Putting your car or handicapped vans through regular oil checks and changes can drastically improve your vehicle’s driving condition. From better gas mileage to an overall longer lifespan, your wheels will thank you for keeping them oiled up and ready to go. Experts recommend changing your vehicle’s oil every 3,000 miles. You can have a professional take care of it or even complete the process yourself.

Replace windshield wipers.
Although summer comes with the promise of pool days, it is also often known to spring sudden showers on unsuspecting drivers. The colder months can be quite harsh on windshield wipers with extreme temperatures, snow, ice and salt affecting the rubber blades and decreasing their efficiency. If you are finding that it takes a few swipes to clear your windshield, it is time to replace your blades.

Treat Rust.
Vehicles today are subject to rust and corrosion due to moisture, humidity, tons of road salt and other airborne pollutants that can cause rapid deterioration of your wheelchair van. If neglected, the damages can make your mobility investment of little value. The thousands of yearly miles, environments and exposure to the elements of larger vehicles means they are a lot more likely to suffer from the effects of corrosion. Correct rust proofing on a regular basis can ensure that your vehicle does not suffer from corrosion related vehicle downtime and keep your van from falling apart.

Stay cool.
One of the worst things you could hear during the hotter months is that the air conditioning has stopped working. Not only does this feature add comfort, it also prevents driver fatigue due to high temperatures. A cooling system that does not function properly has probably developed a leak out, allowing the refrigerant to escape. Prevent any further damage and have a professional take a look.

Get Your Vehicle Summer Ready!

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Each year, the warmer months bring a slew of adventurous opportunities including road trips, family outings and visits to special destinations like the beach and state parks. With these fun-filled plans in motion, the last thing you are going to want to be worrying about is car or handicap accessible vehicles maintenance. However, as the hottest season of the year, summer is also one of the most trying on your vehicle. Even if you are not exactly handy with a wrench, a quick trip to the mechanic can help you follow these trip-saving tips and make sure you reach your destination this summer.

Check tires.
Summer temperatures can significantly affect the pressure levels on your tires. Driving with an under or overinflated tire runs the risk of the tire bursting, really putting a damper on your vacation plans. To avoid getting stuck roadside, be sure to check your tire pressure regularly. Consult your car’s manual for the optimal range of pressure for your vehicle, and ensure that none of your tires falls below or over those numbers. While you are at it, also check the pressure of your spare tire, as that can make a big difference if you are in a bind.

Change oil.
Putting your car or handicapped vans through regular oil checks and changes can drastically improve your vehicle’s driving condition. From better gas mileage to an overall longer lifespan, your wheels will thank you for keeping them oiled up and ready to go. Experts recommend changing your vehicle’s oil every 3,000 miles. You can have a professional take care of it or even complete the process yourself.

Replace windshield wipers.
Although summer comes with the promise of pool days, it is also often known to spring sudden showers on unsuspecting drivers. The colder months can be quite harsh on windshield wipers with extreme temperatures, snow, ice and salt affecting the rubber blades and decreasing their efficiency. If you are finding that it takes a few swipes to clear your windshield, it is time to replace your blades.

Treat Rust.
Vehicles today are subject to rust and corrosion due to moisture, humidity, tons of road salt and other airborne pollutants that can cause rapid deterioration of your wheelchair van. If neglected, the damages can make your mobility investment of little value. The thousands of yearly miles, environments and exposure to the elements of larger vehicles means they are a lot more likely to suffer from the effects of corrosion. Correct rust proofing on a regular basis can ensure that your vehicle does not suffer from corrosion related vehicle downtime and keep your van from falling apart.

Stay cool.
One of the worst things you could hear during the hotter months is that the air conditioning has stopped working. Not only does this feature add comfort, it also prevents driver fatigue due to high temperatures. A cooling system that does not function properly has probably developed a leak out, allowing the refrigerant to escape. Prevent any further damage and have a professional take a look.

Winter Maintenance – Don’t Let Your Battery Leave You Out in the Cold

Leave a reply

With cold weather right around the corner, Autumn is the best time to schedule a battery test.

Old Man Winter can be tough on any vehicle, but the battery, specifically, takes a beating. Your vehicle’s battery loses 33 percent of its power when the temperature dips below freezing, and over 50 percent of its power when the temperature falls below zero.

Expert Advice on Winterizing Your Battery

  • Seek Professional Help—for your batteries, that is. These aren’t your typical AA batteries, so it’s important to have us check the battery and electrical system. Sometimes the naked eye cannot detect the presence of corrosion because it is hidden under the metal between the connection and the post.
  • Protect Your Battery from Mr. Freeze. The cold weather can dramatically reduce a person’s energy level and it can do the same to a battery’s available starting power. It’s a good idea to have your car’s starting and charging system tested every six months.
  • Charge It. Use a battery charger to maintain charge levels and keep the battery in good condition. A fully charged battery will not freeze until -76°F; however, a fully discharged battery could start to freeze at 32°F.
  • Small Maintenance Chores are Necessary. 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 your cables are in good shape and are secured firmly to the battery.

Winterization Checklist
To maximize protection against cold-weather conditions, now’s the time to make sure you not only winterize your battery, but your vehicle too.

We recommend all vehicle owners to check the following items for a safe winter:

  • Replace worn windshield wipers every 6 months.
  • Refill washer fluid often. Winterize with a 50/50 mix of washer fluid and water.
  • Make sure the heater and defroster are in good working condition.
  • Inspect all bulbs and lights for proper operation.
  • Check condition of tires, including the spare.
  • Measure your tire air pressure regularly.
  • Change oil every 3,000 miles.
  • Examine exhaust system for leaks.
  • Flush and refill cooling system with a 50/50 mixture.
  • Check drive belts, clamps and hoses.

Everyone should carry emergency gear such as gloves, boots, tire chains, battery booster pack, cell phone, blankets, flares, flashlight and some high-energy, non-perishable snacks.

Summer Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Care

Leave a reply

Each year, the summer months bring a slew of adventurous opportunities including road trips, family outings and visits to special destinations like the beach and state parks. With these fun-filled plans in motion, the last thing you are going to want to be worrying about is car or handicap accessible vehicles maintenance. However, as the hottest season of the year, summer is also one of the most trying on your vehicle. Even if you are not exactly handy with a wrench, a quick trip to the mechanic can help you follow these trip-saving tips and make sure you reach your destination this summer.

Check tires.
Summer temperatures can significantly affect the pressure levels on your tires. Driving with an under or overinflated tire runs the risk of the tire bursting, really putting a damper on your vacation plans. To avoid getting stuck roadside, be sure to check your tire pressure regularly. Consult your car’s manual for the optimal range of pressure for your vehicle, and ensure that none of your tires falls below or over those numbers. While you are at it, also check the pressure of your spare tire, as that can make a big difference if you are in a bind.

Change oil.
Putting your car or handicapped vans through regular oil checks and changes can drastically improve your vehicle’s driving condition. From better gas mileage to an overall longer lifespan, your wheels will thank you for keeping them oiled up and ready to go. Experts recommend changing your vehicle’s oil every 3,000 miles. You can have a professional take care of it or even complete the process yourself.

Replace windshield wipers.
Although summer comes with the promise of pool days, it is also often known to spring sudden showers on unsuspecting drivers. The colder months can be quite harsh on windshield wipers with extreme temperatures, snow, ice and salt affecting the rubber blades and decreasing their efficiency. If you are finding that it takes a few swipes to clear your windshield, it is time to replace your blades.

Treat Rust.
Vehicles today are subject to rust and corrosion due to moisture, humidity, tons of road salt and other airborne pollutants that can cause rapid deterioration of your wheelchair van. If neglected, the damages can make your mobility investment of little value. The thousands of yearly miles, environments and exposure to the elements of larger vehicles means they are a lot more likely to suffer from the effects of corrosion. Correct rust proofing on a regular basis can ensure that your vehicle does not suffer from corrosion related vehicle downtime and keep your van from falling apart.

Stay cool.
One of the worst things you could hear during the hotter months is that the air conditioning has stopped working. Not only does this feature add comfort, it also prevents driver fatigue due to high temperatures. A cooling system that does not function properly has probably developed a leak out, allowing the refrigerant to escape. Prevent any further damage and have a professional take a look.