WINTERIZE: As the cold wintry months approach, AAA braces for an increase in Roadside Assistance calls for dead batteries. According to data from 2022, AAA East Central contractors responded to 270,985 battery-related calls and replaced 53,847.To avoid potential breakdowns, especially during the colder months, vehicle owners should consider having their batteries tested sooner rather than later.

Intense summer heat can cause corrosion and fluid evaporation, leaving a vehicle’s battery more vulnerable to the rigors of winter. Even the tiny amount of power required to maintain clocks, alarm systems and computer memories will gradually discharge a battery over time.

Other items on AAA’s Car Care Month checklist include:

Tire type and tread: In areas with heavy winter weather, changing to snow tires on all four wheels will provide the best winter traction. Testing the tire’s tread is easy: insert a quarter into a tread groove with the top of George Washington’s head facing down. If you can see the top of Washington’s head, it’s time to start shopping for new tires.

Tire pressure: Typically, tire pressure decreases 1 PSI for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit that the temperature drops, putting owners at risk for a flat tire. The proper tire pressure levels can be found on a sticker located on the driver’s side door jamb. (Don’t forget to check the spare!)

Wiper blades: Replace blades that leave streaks or miss spots. Consider installing winter wiper blades that wrap the blade in a rubber boot to prevent ice and snow buildup.

Washer fluid: Fill the windshield washer fluid reservoir with a cleaning solution that has antifreeze components.

Coolant levels: If your engine coolant level is low, add the recommended coolant to maintain the necessary antifreeze capability.