Three things car owners need to check during winter driving

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - It is one of the most expensive investments you can make.   But too many times, car owners dread going to the mechanic for regular maintenance out of fear of getting hit with a big bill. 

A few simple and inexpensive maintenance steps could help you avoid a much bigger bill down the road, especially this time of year.

Call For Action recently met with Joe Severt, the owner of I-70 Auto Service in Kansas City and AAA certified mechanic, to discuss what car owners should do this time of year to avoid a costly car break down.

Here are Severt’s three suggestions:

1)      Check the tire tread

2)      Check the battery

3)      Replace wiper blades

Severt said a new type of wiper blade on the market better helps clear snow and ice from windshields.   The cost of the blade is more expensive than conventional blades, but Severt said the cost is worth it  especially in snowy and icy conditions.   He said wipers should be replaced twice a year.

He recommends having a professional test the battery strength especially if corrosion can be seen on the battery.   

Severt also believes a professional should check the tread on your car’s tires.   If you do it yourself, use a coin such as a quarter.  Make sure the tread comes to at least the head on the quarter.   Also, he recommends having the two best tires on the back end of the car.

If you have car questions, Call For Action will host a call-in special Tuesday night between 4:30 and 7:00.  Call the hotline at 816-932-4321 and speak directly to a AAA certified mechanic.