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by Mario Andretti
Texaco Products Performance Advisor
Seasoned drivers know that cold temperatures and long drives can be tough on vehicles not prepared for road and weather challenges. Michael and I look for every advantage to protect the performance of our IndyCar during competition, so we're big on being prepared for winter with our recommended five-step check-up:
- Check your antifreeze: The level of your automobile's antifreeze should be checked at the start of the cold weather season and topped off if it is low. If you are using conventional antifreeze and it has not been changed in 30,000 miles you should flush your cooling system and add fresh antifreeze to protect your engine from the elements. If you are using new Havoline Extended Life Anti-Freeze/ Coolant which lasts for 100,000 miles, only a top-off with a 50/50 mix of additional coolant will be necessary.
- Check your motor oil: Read the dipstick and if additional oil is needed check your automobile's required motor oil weight or viscosity by looking in your owner's manual. Low temperatures make motor oil thicken, and free-flowing oil is essential for easy cold-morning starts and smooth running engines. Choose the right weight, or viscosity grade of Havoline Formula3 for your winter climate. It is not only important to make sure your engine has the right amount of oil; the weight is equally important. Make sure you choose a motor oil like Havoline Formula3, which carries the internationally recognized API Certification Mark and the ILSAC seal. These certifications assure you are giving your car the best quality oil available.
- Replace hoses and belts: Examine hoses and belts for cracks and wear, replacing when needed. Routinely replace all hoses and belts every three years even if they show no obvious wear.
- Check tires: Maintain recommended air pressure and check tread wear indicators on each tire.
- Test brakes: Push the brake pedal down. If there's play in the pedal, take your vehicle to a mechanic for a complete brake check-up. Also, make sure brake and power steering fluid levels are correct.
A few minutes of maintenance could save you thousands of dollars in unnecessary repairs and excess fuel costs. So take it from Team Andretti: at every pit stop... check your dipstick regularly, watch that weight and check those tires and brakes.(NAPSI)
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