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OGDEN — November’s blustery weather has given Utah drivers a difficult time on the roads, already causing more than 80 accidents in Weber County.
While safe driving is important, bad car maintenance can easily lead to a wreck too. That's why a quick checkup can make a big difference.
Sean Miller, owner of Frank’s Automotive in North Ogden, has a few simple tips to winterize your car this upcoming season.
Miller said first, improper amounts of antifreeze could not only cause your car engine to freeze up, but over time, corrode the components.
Miller also advises checking wiper fluid and tire pressure.
Fourth, Miller said an alarming number of drivers never realize their tire treads are worn away until they start driving in the snow.
“The thing that concerns me is this person's driving on the freeway with me. I’ve got good tires on my car, but you have to worry about everybody else having good tires,” said Miller.
A little slip on the road, and you could end up against a light pole, or worse.
The thing that concerns me is this person's driving on the freeway with me. I’ve got good tires on my car, but you have to worry about everybody else having good tires.
–Sean Miller
“She didn't know her tires were that bad until it snowed,” Miller said.
Many drivers make the mistake of thinking their tires are fine and have enough tread.
"That's probably the number one thing that people don't notice is wrong with their car, actually," said Miller.
Tire air pressure also drops in the cold. Miller added the importance of wiper fluid.
"Make sure it says minus 20 degrees on it, because some of it's made for summer and some of it's made for winter,” Miller said.
While few drivers come in specifically to have their cars winterized, these are the types of routine checks this mechanic of 30 years makes. If your antifreeze-water mix is left alone for too long, it can do more than let your engine freeze up.
“Because the PH balance is off, it starts to eat the inside of the engine,” said Miller.
Miller noted that drivers also make the mistake of assuming local oil and lube shops will do these checks for you.
“For instance, they don't touch the brake fluid at all. They don't even open the lid. So, you could be without brakes and not even know it,” Miller said.
It’s simple vehicle maintenance that, if left alone, could surprise drivers at the worst time.
“I would have your car checked every quarter at least, if not more."
