<body><div><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=0IWF3q_0wPghDVa00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=0IWF3q_0wPghDVa00" width="1200" height="800" ></figure>RICHMOND, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Nighttime temperatures are getting chilly, but Triple-A urges you to prepare your vehicle for winter NOW before we start seeing the really cold weather. Triple-A MidAtlantic’s Morgan Dean says this is especially important as your vehicle gets age on it. He says with Americans holding onto their cars longer, the average age of the vehicle on the nation’s highways right now are 12-and-a-half years old, and vehicles start to have significantly more maintenance issues after reaching age 10.Triple-A has a checklist of items to take care of before the winter:1. Battery – Automotive batteries typically last between three and five years. To avoid the expense and inconvenience of an unexpected battery failure, AAA recommends that drivers have their vehicle’s battery tested when it reaches three years of age and on an annual basis thereafter. AAA’s EMPI includes free battery testing.2. Tires – According to the Department of Transportation, there are more than 1.2 million weather-related crashes on U.S. roadways each year. As winter approaches, AAA reminds drivers that worn tires can increase stopping distance and the risk of a crash. AAA urges drivers to check tread depth, replace tires proactively and adjust tire pressure for colder temperatures. In addition to checking your tires for adequate tread and proper inflation, tire alignment and rotation enhances fuel efficiency and extends the tire life. More importantly, proper alignment improves handling and safety, minimizing the risk of a crash, especially on wet or snow-covered roads.3. Brakes – AAA recommends brake replacement every 30,000 miles but the need varies based on vehicle, driving habits and weather conditions. There is no overstating the importance of effective braking in minimizing risk.4. Oil change and fluids – Neglecting to invest in the modest expense of this routine maintenance could result in a broad range of issues including the tremendous expense of engine failure. From window washer fluid which ensures visibility, to coolant (anti-freeze), brake fluid and power steering fluid, checking fluids on a regularly basis is key to prevention of more serious and costly car troubles.5. Wiper blades – Changing wiper blades routinely is key to safe driving year-round.6. Electrical Systems – Beyond your battery, faulty electrical systems can impact the alternator, ignition and other functions that keep your car running.7. Belts and Hoses – Belts and hoses are often neglected, but if they break, your trip will be interrupted. Make sure they are closely inspected and replaced if need be.“It’s not just about the inconvenience and expense of a breakdown or tow. Basic maintenance of car parts such as tires or brakes is critical to driver and vehicle safety,” Dean adds.AAA Tips for Saving on Car Care• Get a bumper-to-bumper ‘health’ check – Most AAA Car Care Centers offer free bumper-to-bumper health checks, including the 53-point EMPI, as time and appointments allow. Find a AAA Approved Auto Repair or Car Care location near you.• Take advantage of seasonal discounts – During Car Care Month, AAA Car Care locations offer discounts on tires and additional services. Explore your options.• Budget for car repairs – Previous AAA research indicates that one in three Americans do not have the money for unexpected car repairs. AAA’s EMPI technology shows vehicle owners what repairs are needed immediately and what repairs can be put off, giving drivers time to plan and save.Despite advances in vehicle technology, including maintenance reminders and other dashboard alerts, drivers of newer vehicles are still at risk of a breakdown as well.In an effort to encourage car care, AAA is offering a variety of discounts at its local AAA Car Care Insurance and Travel (CCIT) Centers through the end of October. You can find your local AAA Care Center and learn more about deals here.</div></body>

Mountain View, CA

NewsBreak

Triple-A Urges to Let This Chilly Weather Cue You to Prepare Vehicle for Colder Winter Temperatures

RICHMOND, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Nighttime temperatures are getting chilly, but Triple-A urges you to prepare your vehicle for winter NOW before we start seeing the really cold weather. Triple-A MidAtlantic’s Morgan Dean says this is especially important as your vehicle gets age on it. He says with Americans holding onto their cars longer, the average age of the vehicle on the nation’s highways right now are 12-and-a-half years old, and vehicles start to have significantly more maintenance issues after reaching age 10.