Tips & Tricks

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Weather Proof your Vehicle

Nearly 1 million vehicle accidents a year occur in wet weather, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics.

Here is what you need to inspect:

• Wiper Blades
• Inspect your blades (front and rear if applicable) for cracks and hardness, make sure they don’t chatter when they wipe across the windshield.
• Inspect the Wiper Arms to make sure it is not damaged in any way. (During the winter months make sure you turn off your wipers before shutting the key off!)
• Inspect your washer fluid level and remember you can use “windex” if you do not have any fluid in the house.
• Rain-X is a great product I highly recommend it.

• Lighting
• Inspect all exterior lamps; double-check your brake lamps and headlamps.
• Inspect all you interior lamps.
• Be sure you turn on your headlamps on.

• Tires
• Inspect your tires for proper tread depth. A good rule of thumb is to have at least 50% tread for wet weather conditions. You Autocare Center can help in this area.
• Make sure you have the proper tread pattern for the type of driving you will encounter. (In Colorado, an All-Season Radial is a great choice.)
• Properly inflate your tires, if you have any questions about what pounds to run in your tires, don’t hesitate to call your local Autocare Center for help.
• Under inflated tires will make your vehicle hydroplane easier.
• Check the air pressure in your spare tire, and make sure you are familiar with how to change a flat tire on your vehicle.

• Driving Tips
• Maintain a safe distance. Even with good wet-weather tires, be prepared for longer stopping distances on wet pavement as opposed to dry. * Avoid hydroplaning. Lighter vehicles hydroplane easier than heavier vehicles. Wider tires also hydroplane easier than narrow tires. If you feel your vehicle starting to hydroplane (riding on the water surface), gently take your foot off the accelerator - don't hit your brakes. Let the vehicle slow down until control is regained.

Lastly:
Think about your going to drive in wet weather - Don’t be shy about asking for information from your local Napa Autocare Center. Your safety - and the safety of others depend on you, and your vehicle’s maintenance.