Cold Weather Car Tips from Danny’s Upholstery in Virginia Beach
Cold winter temperatures can cause problems not only for one's health, but the health of one's car. Auto experts are advising drivers to properly winterize their cars so they can withstand the winter weather in the Hampton Roads area.
Auto Upholsterer, Danny White, owner of Danny’s Upholstery in Virginia Beach would like to offer a few car care tips to help the Hampton Roads community throughout this winter. "Antifreeze is number one because it's the life blood of the system," Danny said. Maintaining proper levels keeps the car's motor running and prevents it from freezing. However, the type of antifreeze one uses on a car is determined by the car's make and model.
By and large, auto experts say green antifreeze is intended for use on cars manufactured prior to 1996. Red antifreeze is tended for use on cars manufactured after 1996. Certain brands require diluting the antifreeze with water before adding it to the car.
Auto experts say you can avoid this by using gold antifreeze, which is compatible will all makes and all models.
"This time of year is not a good time to be walking on the side of the road, or have your [car] hood up," Danny White warns. He says he takes the time to winterize his personal and company vehicles each year. "I can't forget that, because I can't forget the cold!"
Workers at Auto Zone in Virginia Beach say antifreeze sales have soared since cold weather set in at the start of the week. Danny White stated, "You can spend $10 or $15 dollars for antifreeze or you can spend a $100 to $1000 later for engine repair. In my opinion it is best to be prepared for any weather."
Auto body workers say the average cost for cold-weather-related repairs starts at around $2000. Here are other ways you can reduce your chances of minimizing cold-weather damage to your car:
• Battery: inspect the battery terminals for corrosion. Heavy corrosion will stop the electric current from starting the vehicle. Use a terminal brush to remove corrosion. Auto experts suggest using this with battery terminal cleaner spray, rather than homemade remedies, such as Coca-Cola or vinegar.
• Belts: Check the engine belts for cracks. Cracks can eventually cause the belt to break, which will stop the cars engine from running.
• Hoses: Ensure engines hoses are not rigid. They are more likely to burst and leak water when rigid. This can burn out the car's engine if not replaced soon after.
• Tires: inspect the depth of the tire tread. Worn tire tread reduces the tires traction, which is especially dangerous on icy roads.
• Fuel tank: Do not let your cars fuel tank level fall below a quarter tank. Also, inspect for moisture in the fluid. This can cause the fuel line to freeze.
• Engine warm up: Mechanics say a good rule of thumb is to start the engine and wait until the frost melts from the windshield before driving at normal speeds. Most cars manufactured after 2000 only require one to two minutes to sufficiently warm the engine.
Auto body experts advise waiting for the engine to cool before adding liquids and checking the battery. They also suggest wearing gloves to protect from battery acid and other chemicals that may irritate your skin.
"Just make those small provisions and take care of that, and your vehicle will take care of you," Danny White said.
For more information on how to care for the inside of your car, contact Danny White at Danny’s Upholstery in Virginia Beach. They offer free estimates and have a pick up/delivery service. They can be reached by calling 757-363-5889.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HDae2JbEzA Upholstery for the Home, Office, or Business
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7s5F_1xE9M Upholstery for the Auto, Boat, Motorcycle, Marine
Stop by and see why Danny’s Upholstery is Your One Stop Upholstery Shop!
Danny's Upholstery is located in Virginia Beach and is Your One Stop Upholstery Shop for your auto, home, office, marine and business. Owned and operated by master craftsman, Danny White, who has over 33 years experience meeting the upholstery needs for the Hampton Roads community.
Danny’s Upholstery
Your One Stop Upholstery Shop
New Location January 1, 2011
4904 Rutherford Rd. Ste. 103
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
dannysupholstery@gmail.com
757-363-5889
