Taking preventive steps now can help keep you mobile later.

NEWS from AAA South Dakota, Nov. 21 – ‘Tis the season to be jolly, but AAA estimates the holidays might not be so merry for approximately five million motorists stranded around the country with vehicle problems now through the end of the year.

Calls to AAA for emergency road service range from the need for a tow or a jump start to calls from members with a flat tire, their keys locked inside the vehicle or in need of AAA’s mobile battery replacement services.

“Cold temperatures and wintry weather take a real toll on vehicles, especially if they have not been properly maintained and prepared for winter,” said Mark Madeja, AAA South Dakota Spokesman. “Now is not the time to defer vehicle maintenance.”

AAA recommends motorists have their vehicles inspected now to avoid trouble on down the road. Some key components technicians should inspect include:

Antifreeze: Check antifreeze annually to ensure it will withstand the winter cold. A 50/50 mixture of coolant and water will protect against freezing.

Windshield wipers and washer fluid: Replace wiper blades if they do

not clear the glass in a single swipe without streaking. Fill the windshield washer reservoir with winter detergent fluid to prevent freeze up.

Tires: Cold weather reduces tire inflation pressure, so check tire pressures frequently and maintain the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended levels. Never reduce the tire pressure in an attempt to increase traction on snow and ice. This does not work and leads to excessive tire wear.

Battery: Check for a secure fit and clean any corrosion from battery terminals, connectors and cables. If the battery is out of warranty, have it tested.

Belts and hoses: Replace cracked or frayed accessory drive belts. Check coolant hoses for excessive wear, softness and bulges. And inspect hose clamps and water pump for leaks.

All fluid levels should be checked, as well as the vehicle’s lights, brakes, and exhaust system.

Assemble and carry an emergency roadside kit that includes a cellular phone and car charger, blankets, paper towels, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, a sack of sand or cat litter or traction mats, ice scraper, snow brush, jumper cables and emergency flares or reflectors.

As North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 51 million members (88,000 in South Dakota) with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA South Dakota can be visited on the Internet at www.AAA.com