Tuneups can fend off repairs, mechanics say
Photo illustration by Steve Puppe / KANSAN
By Mark McMaster
Special to the Kansan
It's a winter morning ritual for some students — unlock the door, throw the books on the passenger seat, turn up the heater, say a silent prayer, then turn the key. If it's a good day, the starter will whine and the engine will spring to life. If it's a bad day, the proud owner rides the bus.
Winter seems to bring out the worst in automobiles, especially those that aren't well-serviced. In fact, without proper maintenance, cold temperatures can make cars unreliable and even dangerous. Drivers who fail to prepare their cars for winter are not only shortening their cars' lives but also are taking a serious risk, local mechanics said.
For example, not checking fluids such as oil and antifreeze could mean expensive trouble.
"If you don't have a strong enough antifreeze mixture when the temperature is zero, it could freeze inside the radiator, or even worse, inside the engine block," said Mike Grammer, co-owner of Don's Auto Center, 920 E. 11th St. "If it freezes in the block, it could destroy the whole engine."
Grammer said that neglecting oil changes or using a thick oil designed for warm temperatures put added strain on the starter mechanism. He recommended an oil that is rated 10/40 or thinner for winter use.
Steve Peterson, mechanic at A-1 Automotive, 802 Lynn St., said that the battery also was a weak element in the cold. He recommended that owners check or replace the battery before every winter.
While key components like the oil, antifreeze and battery are critical to winter performance, other basic maintenance also is necessary. Grammer suggested a tuneup and fluid check before winter.
Mike Grammer co-owner of Don's Auto Center
"Unfortunately, newer cars don't ask for many services in the owner's manual," he said. "This means cars aren't getting serviced as much as they should. As long as it starts, people don't bother to worry about maintenance."
Alack of maintenance can lead to mechanical problems, said Ed Freeman, a store manager at Midas Muffler Shop, 2801 Iowa St. Freeman suggested a thorough inspection that includes brakes, exhaust, tires and suspension.
Most mechanics recommend that car owners find a shop that is familiar with the make of car. Mechanics also suggest beginning with a general inspection. Fluids such as antifreeze and oil should be changed
Prices for these services vary depending on the type of automobile and where it is serviced. Many service centers offer free inspections, but more costly types of maintenance could cost a few hundred dollars.
October 17,1996 The Hill
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