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An Oft Neglected Chore
[By Dr. David Edward Marcinko]
Hello ME-P Readers!
Doctors and Colleagues – You have probably noticed the weather is getting colder, and you’ve made some changes, right? Thanksgiving and X-mass day is nigh! Have you started wearing jackets, packed up the flip-flops, and replaced the A/C with heat?
If you have, that is great, but what have you done to prepare your car for the cold winter months?
Betchya didn’t know that, much like your patients, your car needs to be equally prepared for the colder seasons! It’s a fact—your car reacts to the colder weather in many of the same ways us humans do. Sure, we have blood and skin, where cars have oil and metal, but stay with me here.
There are a few simple things you can do to make sure your trusted car is ready to battle the elements. So; let’s take a quick look at my classic 2000 Jaguar XJ-V8-XL touring sedan; and those pesky winter car tasks.
The List
First of all, your car’s electrical system can take a beating in the cold. The battery has a Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) rating, which should help you determine if it’s powerful enough for those snowy days. The higher the number, the better you’re protected from being stranded. An inspection of your electrical system is always a good idea, though.
Second, you should also consider inspecting the windshield wipers on your vehicle. It’s an easy thing to forget about until you really need them, and then of course they’re worn out. Winter weather, with frost, ice, snow, and dry air can really deteriorate the rubber in wipers.
Third, though it may seem backwards, your vehicle’s cooling system should be in good working condition as well. If the coolant mixture and levels aren’t correct, you could have some very, very expensive repairs waiting for you. Overheating is less of an issue, but your engine actually freezing when not running is a very real, and expensive, danger. And, did you know that your engine’s cooling system also controls your heat inside! A cooling system malfunction could also mean some very cold commutes for you.
Next, headlights are often ignored, too, until you get caught out one night with burnt-out bulbs. With the days getting shorter, and the nights getting much longer and darker, it’s not a bad idea to replace your headlights. Why not upgrade them while you’re at it? The price difference is minimal, and the difference in visibility will make night driving a true joy.
Finally, let’s talk about tires. Some tires are much more suited to winter weather than others! Some tires, especially on performance cars, are rated for summer use only, while others might be “three season” tires. Of course, many cars come standard with all-season tires as well. For those that encounter frequent winter conditions, though, a set of full-winter tires is the best option.
Assessment
Now, just like the patients in your waiting room …. NEXT!
Conclusion
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Filed under: LifeStyle, Risk Management, Touring with Marcinko | Tagged: jaguar XJ-V8-L, Nalley Lexus Roswell, winter car care |
The Leading Business Education Network for Doctors, Financial Advisors and Health Industry Consultants 
Winter Autos,
Nothing really new here; but a good reminder.
Bain
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Warm up and drive away
In the winter, it’s a good idea to let a cold engine warm up before driving away, to let the oil in the engine and transmission get up to temperature. Just a minute will do the trick. Any longer is a waste of gas.
When it is really cold — we’re talking zero and below— reconsider any trip you don’t really need to make. Starting is hard on the engine and battery; the grease in the bearings is stiff, and every seal and hose is contracted from the cold.
And, skip that solo trip to the convenience store.
Buddy
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Is your vehicle ready for Winter?
Many dealers and independents will check your vehicle free of charge, and most will:
• Check Anti-Freeze Protection
• Check Heating System Performance
• Inspect All Belts and Hoses
• Wheel Alignment Check
• Check Fluid Levels
• Check Condition of Brakes
• Check Air Filter
• Brake Bias Test
• Battery Test
• OBD II Codes
• Check Tire Pressure
• Check Tire Condition
But, after the diagnosis is made, treatment is for a service fee. So, make sure it is reasonable.
Ahmed Abdella
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Carjackers and flyers
For many years now, worried motorists have been warned of the threat to their precious cars from gangs of roaming carjackers. Using a combination of cunning and audacity, these carjackers place flyers on the rear windshield of your car, hoping that you won’t notice until you have started the engine.
In a fit of irritation, you will leap out of the car to remove the flyer, allowing the carjacker to jump in and drive off. While there can be no guarantee that this has never happened to anybody, the reports that it is commonplace are not founded in evidence, though it makes good sense to ensure that you take the keys with you, even if you step away from the car for a few seconds.
Urban myth, truth or legend?
Kennison
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Be prepared
Dr. Marcinko – Be sure to have a few basics along in case you do have trouble, including a cell phone and charger, flashlight, first-aid kit, fire extinguisher, warning light or flares, jumper cables, and the proper clothing including a hat and gloves.
Jasper
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When’s the right time to get your brakes inspected?
Brake service is recommended at regular intervals, but be on the lookout for certain warning signs that could mean immediate maintenance is required:
• “Pulsing” sensation: Often the sign of a warped rotor, which should be replaced
• Spongy feeling: Can indicate worn brake pads, air in the hydraulic system, or other issues
• Loud screeching: Can indicate worn-away friction material, which will affect your brakes’ stopping power
• Lack of resistance: If you experience little or no resistance when pressing your brakes, pull over immediately and call for emergency assistance.
Kennison
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