VEHICLE PREPARATION AND WINTER DRIVING TIP #7

GET A BRAKE INSPECTION.  Have the brake system inspected by a certified technician as recommended by your car's manufacturer.  Brake inspection is needed if the fluid level is low or you notice a brake pedal pulsation, steering pull, grinding sound or other unusual noise when braking.  For additional information or to schedule an appointment call (530) 621-4591 or visit our website at www.theautoanalyst.com.

The Auto Analyst, Placerville's one stop auto repair shop.

VEHICLE PREPARATION AND WINTER DRIVING TIPS #6

Inspect your lights.  Visibility is increasingly important in the dark winter months.  Inspect all lights and bulbs and replace any that are burned out.  Clean road grime or clouding from all lenses.  Badly weathered plastic headlight lenses can be restored by professional services or using do-it-yourself kits available at auto parts stores.

If you would like to schedule an appointment to have your headlight lenses restored please call The Auto Analyst, your Placerville one stop auto repair shop, at 530-621-4591 or schedule online at www.theautoanalyst.com.

VEHICLE PREPARATION AND WINTER DRIVING TIP #5

Always keep an emergency kit handy.  Carry an emergency kit equipped for winter weather.  The kit should include:

• Bag of abrasive material (sand, salt, cat litter) or traction mats
• Snow shovel
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Window washer solvent
• Ice scraper
• Cloth or roll of paper towels
• Jumper cables
• Gloves, hats and blankets, enough for everyone who may ride in your car
• Warning devices (flares or triangles)
• Drinking water
• Non-perishable snacks (energy or granola bars)
• Extra clothes
• First-aid kit
• Basic toolkit (screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench)
• Mobile phone and car charger with important numbers programmed in it, including a roadside assistance provider

Your Placerville one stop auto repair shop, The Auto Analyst, wants all to be safe on the roads this winter.  If you would like to have your vehicle inspected before any trip please call (530) 621-4591 or visit our website www.theautoanalyst.com.

VEHICLE PREPARATION AND WINTER DRIVING TIP #4

Inspect tires to ensure driveability on winter roads.  Examine tires for tread depth, uneven wearing and cupping.  Tires with less than 4/32" of tread will have reduced traction in wet and snowy conditions.  Check tire pressure once a month before driving when tires are cold.  Not sure if your tires are ready for winter conditions give your local Placerville one stop auto repair shop, The Auto Analyst, a call today at 530-621-4591 or stop by for a quick inspection.  Like us on Face Book where coupons and discounts are posted weekly or check out our website at www.theautoanalyst.com.

VEHICLE PREPARATION AND WINTER DRIVING TIP #3

Keep an eye on your coolant.  Check the coolant level when the engine is cold.  If the level is low, add a 50/50 solution of coolant and water to maintain the necessary antifreeze capability.  (NOTE: CHECK YOUR MANUEL FOR CORRECT COOLANT  TYPE).  It is recommended that a coolant flush be performed every other year to make sure the protection is clean and strong.  During this time the condition of accessory drive belts and hoses are checked.  If you have any questions please give your local Placerville one stop auto repair facility, The Auto Analyst, a call at 530-621-4591 or visit our website at www.theautoanalyst.com.

VEHICLE PREPARATION AND WINTER DRIVING TIP #2

Check your windshield wipers and washers.  Wiper blades should completely clear rain or snow from your windshield with each swipe. Replace blades that leave streaks or miss spots.  Make sure your windshield washer reservoir with a solution that has antifreeze properties.  Ask us about an AquaPel windshield treatment.  Call your local Placerville auto repair facility, The Auto Analyst, today or swing by for new windshield wiper blades.  We can be reached at 530-621-4591.

VEHICLE PREPARATION AND WINTER DRIVING TIP #1

Ensure engine performance.  Replace the air filter as recommended by your car's manufacturer.  Get "check engine" lights tested and quickly resolve driveability problems such as hard starting, rough idling, stalling or reduced power.  Winter weather will likely make these issues worse.  Call The Auto Analyst, your local one stop auto repair stop, 530-621-4591 today for an appointment or schedule online at www.theautoanalyst.com.