How to Protect Your Vehicle Throughout the Winter

Winter is a challenging time for any vehicle in most parts of the country, from New England to San Francisco, but especially where the temperatures can dip below freezing. To protect your car from the harsh winter elements, it is important to take proactive steps that will help you stay safe throughout the months ahead.

Some steps you can take will help ensure that your battery and engine remain strong if left outside in the cold. No one wants to be stranded on the side of the road, especially in wintertime. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that all auto fluids are able to function properly. You may have to change your oil if you haven’t done so in recent months, and getting a good winter grade oil can come in handy in colder parts of the country.

Why Driving in the Cold Is Hard on Cars – and What to Keep in Your Vehicle for Extra Protection Against the Elements

Driving in cold, harsh weather can cause wear and tear to your car and, if left unchecked, could result in costly repairs. Because tires can skid on icy roads, it’s especially vital to keep an eye on your tires this time of year. Fortunately, there are fairly simple steps you can take to help your vehicle stand the test of winter weather. For example, keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure and check their treading for any wear and tear. If they need to be rotated or replaced, now is a good time to get that done. Additionally, it is important to check your oil levels regularly and make sure the windshield wipers are functioning correctly.

Protecting your vehicle from winter damage can be an ongoing challenge. To be on the safe side, drivers in colder regions should keep a winter emergency kit in the car with items such as a first aid kit, flashlights, candles, blankets, water, and non-perishable food. A professional mechanic will be able to take a look at your vehicle to see if there is any routine maintenance needed to keep your car in tip-top condition before heading out into the snow.

What Are the Best Proactive Measures for Drivers in Cold, Icy Weather?

With winter already upon us, here is a checklist to help you determine whether your vehicle is fully prepared for the snowy season. While it may not be comprehensive, it is still a good place to start.

1. Most Common Auto Winterization

Let’s start with the basics. Winterizing begins with keeping up with your car’s maintenance schedule. This includes:

  • Making sure that the battery is in good condition
  • Checking the antifreeze levels
  • Ensuring that all the lights are working properly

Depending on where you live, investing in some snow tires may help provide better traction if the roads tend to get icy and dangerous. Finally, it is important to check your vehicle’s antifreeze levels routinely, as antifreeze helps keep your engine from freezing when it is cold outside.

2. Avoid Costly Repairs and Replacements

Another reason it is important to prepare your vehicle for the winter months is to avoid costly repairs or replacements. One way to do this is to make sure your vehicle’s tires are properly inflated and have a good tread. Checking the fluid levels, including oil and antifreeze, and adding extra antifreeze if necessary, can also help keep your car in good condition during the colder months.

3. What Else to Check

One of the most important steps to protecting your vehicle from the elements is to check your brakes, tires and lights. Checking your brakes helps ensure that your vehicle functions properly and safely on icy and wet roads. Additionally, checking the tire pressure regularly during winter months is important for maintaining efficient driving and avoiding getting stuck in the snow.

Finally, it is important to wash your vehicle regularly to remove road salt that can cause damaging rust and corrode the undercarriage. Inspect the body to make sure there are no rust spots that could cause problems if they are not treated or patched up.

Be Protected by Comprehensive Auto Insurance Coverage at AMIGO

Each year, it is essential to take precautionary measures to protect your vehicle, no matter where you live. And having the right kind of auto insurance coverage should be part of your winter maintenance plan. Make sure you have comprehensive auto coverage for you and your family, including liability insurance and other appropriate coverage, to ensure all your needs are met. That way, if there is an accident or unforeseen event involving your vehicle, you can rest assured knowing the costs of any repairs will be covered.

This winter, be sure you have an excellent insurance plan that covers all your driving needs! Contact Amigo Auto Insurance today to speak with an agent who can help you compare quotes and find the best deal for you today.

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How to Save Money on Auto Repairs

In this economy, it is important to save money where we can. And one major area that any driver should examine is the cost of auto repairs. The cost of owning and operating a car can be expensive, but there are ways that you can save money on auto repairs – starting with becoming more proactive about your car’s health.

Here are a few things that you can do to help you save money on future auto repairs.

Overview of How to Spend Less on Auto Mechanics

Getting your vehicle repaired is often a stressful experience – especially if you’re concerned about being upsold or overcharged. It’s possible to conserve a few of your hard-earned dollars simply doing some simple maintenance on your car and by being better prepared for unexpected repairs. You can also save money by being aware of the different types of auto repairs that are available.

Most drivers would prefer to save money on auto repairs if possible. Here are some tips on how to do that:

1) If you are handy with tools, you can do some of the easier repairs yourself.

2) You can also shop around for the best price on parts and labor.

3) You may be able to get a discount if you pay cash at some auto repair shops.

Keep Up to Date with Recommended Repairs and Routine Maintenance

First, you should always keep up with the recommended maintenance for your vehicle. It’s no secret that auto repairs can be expensive. But there are ways to save money on auto repairs, and it starts with prevention. Many vehicle owners wait until they experience a breakdown or overheated engine before taking their car in for service, which can end up being very expensive.

Regular maintenance on your car – such as oil changes, tune-ups and tire rotations – can help keep your car running smoothly and prevent more expensive repairs down the road. Even making sure the tires are filled is a smart, fuel-efficient way to stay safe on the road.

Do Your Own Maintenance and Repairs

Auto care is not for everyone, but there may be some things you can handle on your own. If you’re willing to invest in low-cost parts and tools and get your hands a little dirty, you may well end up saving hundreds of dollars or more over time. Not to mention the time saved by taking care of business in your own garage – and on your own schedule!

Get Word-of-Mouth Repair Shop Recommendations

Many people think that they need to take their car to the mechanic for every little noise, but that is not always the case. There are some additional measures that you can do to save money on auto repairs. For example, while dealerships often double as mechanic and repair shops, they are not necessarily the best place to conserve on repair expenses.

Like anything else in life, a little research can go a long way. Look up online recommendations of automobile repair shops in your neighborhood. Read online reviews carefully. They are often a good word-of-mouth source of anecdotal information about the kind of experience you can expect at certain shops.

If that doesn’t work – ask around, in person and on social media. Many people have both good and bad stories about auto repair experiences. Ask your neighbors and coworkers for recommendations. Chances are, you’ll receive a few. When someone has developed a good relationship with someone they trust, they are often more than eager to share the love.

Get a Good Deal on Comprehensive Auto Insurance Coverage

Finally, make sure you have comprehensive auto coverage that covers your family’s needs but doesn’t break the band. For instance, you may want to check and be sure car insurance plan will cover the cost of potential repairs in the event of an accident. While you’re at it, make sure you will have access to roadside service, as well. Unfortunate incidents on the road can’t always be prevented, but solid planning can save you from paying unnecessarily out of pocket when they do occur.

To find an excellent insurance plan that covers all your needs, contact Amigo Insurance today. Our agents are ready to help you compare quotes and find the best deal for your needs!

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5 Car Maintenance Tasks You Can Do Yourself

We all try to play the saving game as best as we can. However, when even the smallest of things go wrong with our cars, it’s easier to schedule time at the shop than try to fix it ourselves, costing us quite a bit of money in the process. And while many things should be left to the professionals, there are a couple of tasks that you can easily check or fix at home.

Things You’ll Need

  • Rag or towel
  • Tire Pressure Gauge
  • Receptacle
  • Your Car’s Manual

Windshield Wipers

windshield wipers

You don’t need to be a car genius to know how to change your windshield wipers. Blade set-up may differ from car to car so it’s important to check your vehicle’s manual, but it goes something like this:

  1. Lift the blades, similar to when you wash them, and remove old blades.
  2. Be sure to look at how the old blades connect to the metal arms. This so you know how your new ones will be attached.
  3. Find the tab on the underside of the wiper and push to remove old blade.
  4. Attach new blades carefully so as to not bend or scratch your windshield.
  5. Line everything up and make sure they are both secure.
  6. Generally, the packaging for new blades offers additional helpful tips and diagrams in case you’re unsure.

Tire Pressure

tire pressure

Having correct tire pressure is very important as it helps evenly distribute the weight of your car. When tire pressure is off, due to either under or over-inflating, the tire loses that stability and can negatively impact your car’s stride. When tire pressure is too low, you’ll see a TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensor light up on your dashboard. This means it’s time to check your tires. Luckily, this doesn’t have to break the bank and can easily be done in less than 5 minutes with a basic tire pressure gauge.

  1. First, be sure to check your vehicle’s recommended PSI. This can be found on the inside of the driver’s side doorjamb or in your owner’s manual.
  2. Remove the caps from the tire air valves; place the gauge on the valve creating a solid seal between gauge and valve.
  3. Apply pressure to get a reading. Do this for all four tires.
  4. If the pressure is too low, use an air compressor to add air. These are available at many gas stations. Ensure that you add air to match your vehicle’s PSI.
  5. If you overfill your tires, use the back end of pin to remove any extra air.

Fluid Levels

fluid levels

Don’t let the sight of your engine or fancy car terminologies intimidate you. Checking your vehicle’s fluid levels can be quite easy and time effective. As a general rule, a fluid level check is recommended every 1-2 months. To check any fluids under your hood, be sure to park your car in a flat, well-lit area and let the engine cool for about 20 to 25 minutes.

Check Your Oil

oil-splash
  1. Identify the dipstick. This is a long, thin rod with a ring or handle at the top. Not to be confused with your transmission fluid dipstick. As always, refer to your owner’s manual to be sure.
  2. Pull the dipstick all the way out, wipe it with a rag or towel and reinsert. This will ensure a better reading of the fluid level.
  3. After a couple of minutes, pull the dipstick out once more and check if the oil level is near the FULL line.
  4. If not, add more oil. Your manual will state what kind of oil is best for your vehicle.
  5. Be sure to never overfill the oil reservoir.
  6. To add oil, simply locate the reservoir, remove the cap and use a funnel to add. Wipe any excess or spilled oil with a rag or towel. Place the cap securely on the reservoir and recheck your levels.
  7. If you notice that your oil is black or brown and not clear light brown and shiny, you might need to go get your oil changed professionally.
  8. For a helpful graphic, click here.

Check Your Windshield Wiper Fluid

automotive-wiper-fluid2-512
  1. Find the windshield wiper fluid reservoir. This is usually a white plastic container or tube with the picture of a windshield. You can find the exact location of this reservoir in your manual.
  2. If the level is lower than the FILL line, remove the cap and add the appropriate fluid with a funnel. Do not add water.
  3. Be sure to close the lid securely once you’re finished.

Flush a Radiator

radiator flush

Keeping a radiator from overheating is essential. Unfortunately, over time, sludge can build up inside the generator making your coolant less effective. In turn, this can negatively affect your engine’s performance and mileage. A coolant service is generally recommended every 30,000 miles or five years. However, it’s always important to check your owner’s manual for your vehicle’s recommended specifications. Here’s how that goes:

  1. Make sure your engine is cool. This will prevent any injury should you make any contact with the engine. A good time to work is two hours after your vehicle’s been last used.
  2. Locate your vehicle’s radiator drain plug. Place a coolant receptacle under the drain and unscrew the plug. Allow the coolant to drain into the receptacle.
  3. Replace drain plug and remove the radiator cap. With a funnel, add radiator flush cleaning solution to the radiator and fill the rest with water.
  4. Replace and tighten the cap. Start your car, turn your heater on to the hottest setting, then let cool for about 10 -15 minutes. After those minutes are up, turn your car off and wait for your car engine to cool.
  5. After your engine has cooled back down, unscrew the drain plug and empty its contents into your receptacle.
  6. Replace drain plug. With your funnel, fill the radiator with 50% coolant and 50% water. Tighten all caps and voila!

Jump Start Your Car

jumpstarter

Knowing how to jump-start a car is an essential roadside know-how. In many cases, it can not only help you get back on the road but also help be a good Samaritan by knowing how to help other drivers in need.

  1. Have a friend or family member offer to help. Have them drive the good car up to your car so batteries are as close as possible.
  2. Attach the red positive cable to the good car battery terminal, then attach the other red positive cable to your car’s battery terminal.
  3. Attach the black negative cable to the good car battery, then ground the car by attaching the other black negative to a solid, unpainted metal surface on your car (a bolt, for example) as far away from the battery as possible. Avoid any moving parts in the engine.
  4. Start the good car first and wait 2 minutes. Then, start your car and wait for 2 minutes.
  5. Remove the cables in the reverse order they were attached in.
  6. Let your car run for 2 more minutes then hit the road!
  7. For a helpful diagram, click here.

Simple as many of these steps may be, be sure to recognize when something is out of your capabilities or knowledge. If you’re unsure of how to proceed, take your care to a professional and avoid any further damage.

Signed,
Amigo Insurance

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