Is Your Heater and Defroster Working Properly

Winter brings snow, ice and cold temperatures. Your car’s heating system is vital to your safety. It not only keeps you warm but keeps the windshield and rear window clear of ice, and from fogging up. Check all the functions of the heater and defroster. Make sure the heater fan motor is working on all speeds and make sure that the heater changes from the defrost mode, heater mode (floor vent) and regular vent. Move the temperature selector from cold too hot to ensure that the heater system is responding correctly. Also, make sure that the rear defroster is working properly. If any of these functions are not operating properly, see your service professional today.

For Seniors, The Age of Your Car is as Important as the Mileage

 

Many seniors may only put a few thousand miles per year on their cars, some even less.  Low mileage on your car can give you a false sense of security, when it comes to preventive vehicle maintenance. The fact is that time is equally important as the mileage is when determining needed maintenance.

Good mechanics will factor in both time and mileage and will recommend services based more on time than mileage in some circumstances.  For instance, under normal conditions the antifreeze may have a factory recommended interval service of 50,000 miles.  However, if you are driving a 2002 Toyota with 20,000 miles on the odometer, your mechanic may recommend flushing and replacing the antifreeze, more because of time than mileage.

Other items of concern due to time are tires, belts, hoses, filters, and other fluids.  Other components, such as the brake system can also be affected when a vehicle is not used often.  To insure your safety and the safety of others on the road, speak to you service professional about preventive maintenance. Remember, it’s not always the mileage, time is also a factor.