By JESSICA R. ALLEN

jra020@latech.edu

 

Don’t want to blow a “head gasket” when winter comes around? Then prepare your vehicle properly for the weather changes that are just around the corner.

Area fast lube and oil change stations can help students ready their cars for the upcoming winter weather.

Darryl Mills, general manager of Citgo Fast Lube Tech Drive, said there is one main element drivers need to check before the cold front set in.

“Get their antifreeze levels checked to protect from freezing,” Mills said.

“A hydrometer is used to check the protection level of antifreeze and should be at a 20 below zero protection level.”

Mills said checking the antifreeze is important to the life of the vehicle.

“It’s really important that the protection levels are in good shape or it could cause the engine block to crack,” Mills said.

Mills said he suggests a total cleaning for the vehicle’s fluid systems.

“We recommend a complete radiator system flush,” Mills said. “It cleans your heat core and engine block.”

Mitchell Jones, manager of Jiffy Lube, said checking the tires is also a good idea for prepping a vehicle for winter.

“Keep tires checked,” Jones said. “Tire pressure drops with a cool front.”

Jones said to check the battery in the vehicle as well.

“In really cold weather, if the battery isn’t holding a full charge, it can cause the car not to start,” Jones said.

Wynne Riser, a Tech mechanic, said he would check the windshield wiper fluids during a winter prep procedure.

“It has a special coolant for windshield wipers, not engine coolant,” Riser said. “[The protection level] should be at zero degrees.”

He also said the entire procedure is free during an oil change at many locations.

“Most mechanics will do it without charge when you ask during an oil change,” Riser said.

Kimberly Maxwell, a freshman interior design major, said she does something different.

“[I] put a tarp over [the car], so the windows won’t ice over,” Maxwell said. “I put cold water on the windows when I forgot to put the tarp over the car.”

Maxwell said to make sure to use cold water when washing the windows.

“Don’t put hot water on icy windows or else the windows will bust,” Maxwell said.

There are several steps to cover when attempting to protect your vehicle for the cool winter. For all the ways there are to prep your car, the best way is simply to get it done.