AAA Chicago's Tips for Frigid Weather

AURORA, Ill., Feb 5, 2007 -- Preparing now for frigid temperatures will help keep your vehicle on the road, advises AAA Chicago.

  Motorists can help keep their vehicles on the road by doing the following:

  -- Faulty batteries cause more car starting problems than any other
     factor. At 0 degrees, a good battery has 35 percent less starting power
     than in summer. At minus 20, battery power drops 50 percent. If your
     battery is more than three years old, have a load test performed at
     most auto supply stores.
  -- Park your car in the garage. If you have no garage, put a tarp over the
     hood or park protected from prevailing winds. To keep doors from
     freezing shut, place a plastic trash bag between the door or window
     glass and the frame.
  -- Keep the fuel tank at least half-full to avoid fuel-line freeze-up.
  -- To avoid frozen door locks, buy a lubricant available in most auto
     supply stores. If your lock freezes, heat your key with a pocket
     lighter but remember to wear gloves or hold the key with pliers. Or,
     fill a plastic jug with hot water. Hold it against the door panel or
     lock area. Do not throw hot water on the car. It, too, will freeze and
     you run the risk of cracking glass.
  -- If you become snowbound, stay with your vehicle. It provides excellent
     shelter from the cold and makes it easier for rescuers to locate you.
     If you can start your engine, run it only enough to keep warm. Make
     sure the exhaust pipe is snow-free. Keep emergency supplies in the car,
     such as a cell phone, boots, hats, gloves, blankets, a "coffee can
     heater", flashlight and reflective triangle.

     AAA reminds motorists to give tow truck operators a "brake." They're
     there to help you. Drive with care when a tow truck is there.