Homepage / Automotive

Clean Lights, Tire Pressure Important In Winter

New Technology Can Help Control Spins

As the temperature drops, experts say there are certain things many people don't pay enough attention to when it comes to their vehicles and winter driving.

For instance, when cleaning off your windshield and other windows, take time to clean all your lights as well.

"(Lights) get snow covered and also dirt covered with the salt spray and slush spray from the road", said Diane Landry of General Motors. "You want to make sure that they are clean so that you have good visibility at nighttime. and also so other vehicles can see you."

Another important factor in winter driving is tire pressure.

"The tire is your only contact with the road," Landry said. "Most people don't know it, but the cold weather really affects the tire pressure ... especially with the ice and snow on the road, make sure your tires are inflated properly."

And if you are looking to buy a car or pickup anytime soon, she said you should consider a new technology available from several manufacturers known as stability-enhancement systems.

"If you start to spin out, the system essentially applies the brake at individual wheels ... depending on which way you're spinning out or if it's a front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive, it applies that control at the correct wheel," Landry said.

While manufacturers like GM say vehicle stability-enhancement systems don't directly prevent crashes, they may help drivers avoid the conditions that can lead to rollovers and other serious accidents.

2010 Cars

Car
A lot of familiar cars are getting a facelift for 2010, and several all-new models will soon be driving around your neighborhood. Get a sneak-peek at the newest hardware here. More

Links We Like

Sponsored Content
In the workplace it’s the little things that get you noticed and help you stand out above the rest. Do these things and increase your chances for a promotion. More

If your credit is shabby, you'll need to shore up your score to convince a lender you're worthy. Here's how to boost your point total. More

Though stress does not cause irritable bowel syndrome, it can trigger or intensify your symptoms. Learn more to help manage your IBS. More

Do you want the look of a quality paint job without the hassle of having to redo it over and over? Spray on siding could be the answer. More

Sponsored Links

Gas Prices

Gas prices
Keep tabs on the latest news, and calculate the cost of a trip in our special section. More


Credit Report

See All 3 National Credit Scores & Reports Instantly and Online for free! More

See Your Complete Credit Picture. Get your Experian, Equifax & Transunion Credit Score & Report Instantly. View Online for free. More