BUFFALO, N.Y., January 12, 2009 – Extreme cold and sub zero temperatures require more than routine maintenance to ensure proper vehicle start-up and operation. In addition to regular preventative maintenance, AAA recommends the following cold weather tips to get you going and keep you and your vehicle safe from the bitter cold.

• Make sure your vehicle’s battery is maintained and in prime condition.
• Be sure all battery terminals and connections are clean and affixed tightly. In extreme cold, your vehicle’s battery needs all the power it can get. Loose or corroded connections will not allow maximum power output and can prevent your vehicle from starting. If your battery is three to four years old, have it checked to determine if its needs to be replaced before it leaves you stranded.
• If your battery completely fails, AAA can assist you at home or on the roadside with AAA Battery Service. AAA members in the metro Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse areas can call 1-800-AAA-HELP to have your old battery and charging system checked and if needed, AAA can install a new battery right on the spot. Members can avoid the hassle of “shopping” for a new battery and receive the added advantage of AAA’s mobile warranty program.
• Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid gas line freeze-up and ensure that you have extra “running time” if the weather is unfavorable. Motorists can also use an isopropyl based fuel system antifreeze or dry gas to prevent icing in extreme temperatures. Gas line antifreeze will mix with water and keep ice from forming in your tank and fuel lines. As always, it’s important to follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations found in your owner’s manual.
• Consider a switch to winter oil or synthetic blend motor oil for colder temperatures. Conventional oils may thicken as it gets colder, while synthetic motor oil flows better in cold temperatures, allowing your engine to turn over easily and provide better lubrication and protection. If synthetic oil is not right for your vehicle, be sure to follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations for oil that meets colder temperature ranges.
• Be sure you have the proper amount of antifreeze in your vehicle. Antifreeze works to prevent engine block freezing. Also, be sure to check your entire cooling system, including hoses, belts, and radiator; to make sure it is functioning properly.
• If door locks are frozen, be sure to warm the key or use a lock de-icer. Be sure to never combine heat with lock de-icer as it is flammable. Don’t pour warm water on the car as it may re-freeze making the situation worse; warming your key first will help heat up the lock from the inside.
• Warm up your vehicle for at least five to 10 minutes before heading out. Warming your vehicle allows oil and engine to warm up, as well as the heat and defrosting systems.
• At all times, make sure the exhaust pipe isn't clogged with snow, ice or mud. A blocked exhaust or exhaust system leak could cause deadly carbon monoxide gas to leak into the passenger compartment with the engine running.
• Consider winter wiper blades and “no-freeze” windshield washer fluid. Motorists should replace worn wiper blades and always carry extra windshield washer fluid. AAA also recommends not turning your wipers on until they’re clear of ice and snow.
• If possible, avoid using your parking brake in below freezing weather as it may freeze in the locked position.
• Protect your vehicle from the cold by using a garage if available. Heat from a recently driven vehicle’s engine will warm the ambient air in a properly insulated garage and make your vehicle easier to start in the morning, plus your vehicle will also be clear of ice and snow.
• Be sure your vehicle is fully equipped with a winter driving kit.
• The most important safety items are a fully charged cellular telephone and emergency road service coverage.
• Small bag of abrasive material (sand, salt, “non-clumping” kitty litter)
• Small snow shovel
• Snow brush & ice scraper
• Traction mats
• Flashlight with batteries
• Windshield washer fluid
• Cloth or roll of paper towels
• Booster cables
• Blanket
• Protective clothing - heavy gloves, scarf, warm boots
• Warning devices (triangles)
• First Aid Kit
• Drinking water, granola or candy bar

According to AAA Western and Central New York, the top three emergency roadside assistance calls during periods of extreme cold are weakened or dead batteries, vehicle lock-outs due to frozen locks or keys locked inside during vehicle warm-up, and frozen fuel lines. AAA Roadside Assistance is available by calling 1-800-AAA-HELP (222-4357) 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Requests for AAA Roadside Assistance can also be made online by visiting www.AAA.com/roadservice.

AAA reminds motorists that practicing preventative maintenance year-round better prepares your vehicle for the winter months and extreme cold. For more information on how to keep your vehicle properly maintained and on the go during the cold weather, or for a list of comprehensive winter driving tips, visit www.AAA.com/auto.

As Upstate New York’s largest member services organization, AAA provides over 880,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive related services. Since its founding in 1900, AAA has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA can be visited at www.AAA.com.