AAA Chicago Says 'Get a Grip' During Winter Car Care Month

AURORA, Ill., Sept. 30 -- Motorists are encouraged to "get a grip" during the month of October. That's when AAA Chicago offers its free Winter Car Care inspection at more than 70 AAA-Approved Auto Repair facilities statewide.

When snow is on the roads, AAA says it is vital for motorists to have tires with good traction. Most vehicles today have all-season tires, which are designed for all weather conditions. However, the tread patterns of all-season tires are not as secure as the treads on dedicated snow tires.

"Tires are the only contact vehicles have with the roads," said Kris Lathan, AAA Chicago spokesperson. "Drivers accustomed to driving in snow regions should to consider investing in tires with treads that are specifically designed for greater traction in snow, slush, and icy conditions."

For added safety, AAA recommends adhering to the following tips to determine if tires are equipped to provide sound performance:

   -- When purchasing snow tires, make sure they are labeled M/S (mud and
      snow). This will help ensure they are in compliance with any local or
      state regulations that require the use of snow tires. Most all-season
      tires are marked M/S.
   -- If snow-chains are used, make sure they properly fit the tires and are
      in good condition.
   -- Check tire pressure often in cold weather. This will help avoid under
      inflation, which can hamper traction.
   -- If the vehicle has front or rear wheel drive, maximum traction and
      proper handling of the vehicle are achieved when snow tires are
      installed on all four wheels.

Illinois residents can obtain a Winter Car Care inspection at any one of the more than 70 AAA-Approved Auto Repair facilities located statewide. Each facility is regularly inspected by AAA to meet stringent standards for customer satisfaction, staff qualifications, and scope of services. AAA Chicago recommends its network of approved repair facilities to motorists for their automotive maintenance and repair needs.

For the nearest location, log on to http://www.aaa.com/ and click on Autos & Driving, or call 866-YOUR-AAA.

AAA Chicago offers automotive, travel, insurance and financial services. It is part of The Auto Club Group (ACG), the largest affiliation of AAA clubs in the Midwest, with 4.1 million members in eight states. ACG clubs belong to the national AAA federation, a not-for-profit organization, with more than 46 million members in the United States and Canada.