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(ARA) - Rough winter weather increases your risk of being in a car accident by 36 percent, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. But taking a few steps now can help minimize your risk. Ed Ramsden, automotive coordinator at WyoTech in Blairsville, Pa. offers some important advice for winter driving.

First, check your engine fluid. "In the winter, engine fluid has double duties. It warms the inside of your car while also acting as a coolant to keep your engine from overheating. Your engine fluid can lose its properties after extended use, so you want to make sure to follow manufacturer standards," says Ramsden. While some vehicles can go five years or 100,000 miles before needing a change, others require engine fluid to be changed every three years. To maximize performance on cold mornings automotive technicians also suggest that you give your car at least three to five minutes to warm up. This allows the engine fluid to reach operating temperature before driving.

Second, make sure to maintain proper tire pressure. Improper tire pressure affects handling, gas mileage, tire wear and tear, and traction - all of which can make driving more dangerous in rough road conditions. Tire pressures can fluctuate widely in the winter climate because the air inside the tires can go from very cold to very hot in a short amount of time, so Ramsden recommends that you take a few minutes to check your tire pressure each time you fill up at the gas station.

WyoTech's Ramsden also suggests that tires more than three years old be replaced. "The compounds used in tire manufacturing break down over time, and after three years, there is enough wear to affect the structural integrity of the tire," he explains. Checking the age of your tires is easy. Just look for the last four digits of the DOT label on the sidewall. The last four digits of the number tell you the week and year of manufacture.

Traction is more important in the winter than at other times of the year, so you want to check the tread pattern and tread depth on all your tires. If snow is likely in your climate, you want to make sure your tread depth is not less than 6/32nds inches. One quick way to check your tread depth is with a penny. Just place a penny face down into the tread groove of the tire. If the top of the Lincoln Memorial is covered by the tread, you have more than 6/32nds of tread depth remaining. If not, it's time to get new ones.

Third, always buy windshield wiper fluid that matches the climate you live in. "Play it safe. If it is possible for temperature to reach negative 20 degrees, then you want to buy fluid that is good up to negative 25 degrees," says Ramsden. The wrong windshield fluid in the winter can result in busted lines and containers if the fluid freezes. Good windshield wipers are also a good investment. "If you can't see well, you can't drive well," says Ramsden.

Even if you live in a frigid climate, however, Ramsden warns against using dry gas additives. "All gasoline sold in the U.S. is regulated, so you should not have problems with gas lines freezing in today's market," he says. In fact, the use of fuel additives can cause severe drivability issues resulting in hard starts and deceleration stalls. Extended use can also damage the catalytic converter, which is a very expensive emission control device.

Making sure your car is in good condition is only the first step. How you drive in winter weather is just as important. "My favorite winter advice is three simple rules: Drive slow, stop early and keep in mind most people aren't following these simple rules - i.e., drive defensively," says Ramsden.

"You want to be prepared for any type of situation," Ramsden says. Keep gloves, a winter hat and a warm coat in your vehicle in case of a breakdown. You may also want to keep a tow strap or jumper cables in the trunk, in case you encounter someone else in need. Ramsden suggests that you keep a fully charged cell phone, blanket, hazard markers and a tire jack in the trunk. You may also want to carry a bag of kitty litter in your trunk for additional traction, in case you get stuck.

Lastly, Ramsden suggests you keep a full tank of fuel in your vehicle at all times. The additional weight is helpful for traction and it can come in very useful in case of an emergency. "You definitely don't want to run out of gas if you get stuck in your vehicle for any period of time," he says.

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(ARA) - Baby, it may be cold outside, but inside your car's engine it's hot as blazes. Even when temperatures dip, your vehicle's coolant system works hard to keep the engine cool and running smoothly. It's important to take care of your cooling system, whatever the weather.

Antifreeze helps keep a car engine running smoothly, despite the temperature outside. When a car engine starts, coolant is pumped around the engine to either warm it up or cool it down. In addition to keeping the car at the ideal temperature, many antifreeze products on the market today, such as PEAK Long Life Antifreeze and Coolant, also have extra additives to help prevent corrosion and expensive engine breakdowns.

Because it's an important part of keeping your engine running smoothly, it's essential to take care of your antifreeze. It's not too difficult a task and you can even save a few bucks by doing it yourself. Here are 10 easy steps to change your own antifreeze:

* Clean the radiator. As you drive, the cooling system of your car sucks in air, bugs, dirt, leaves and other debris along with it. It's important to clean it so air can easily pass through the radiator.

* Place a drip pan under the car. Antifreeze is not meant for ingestion, either by humans or animals. Using a drip pan will allow for easy disposal and keep the process safe.

* Remove the radiator pressure cap. When the engine has cooled, place a rag on the radiator cap and twist off. You'll need to press down firmly with the heel of your hand, and perform two quarter turns to the left, one to unlock it, and another to remove the cap.

* Inspect the pressure cap and hoses. The radiator cap helps keep the coolant properly pressurized. If it is rusting or dried out, replace it with a new one. Also look at the radiator hoses and check for leaks, cracks or soft and mushy conditions. Replace if necessary.

* Drain the radiator. On the bottom of radiator, release the valve and let the fluid spill into the pre-placed drip pan. Pour the drained antifreeze into a container that meets disposal regulations for your area.

* Flush the radiator and cooling system. This may be the easiest and most fun step of the process. Simply take out the garden hose and flush out the system. For the first "flush," collect the rinse and dispose of it with the used antifreeze. Continue rinsing until the drained water is clear.

* Add the coolant and water mixture. The ideal mix is 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent distilled water. You can either mix them by filling the radiator half way with one and topping it off with the other, or pre-mix the two together in a separate container.

* Bleed the system. Replacing the coolant often creates air pockets in the fluids that should be removed before going out for a drive. To even out the levels, run the engine for about 15 minutes. At the same time, turn the heat on high to help circulate the coolant. Upon completion, carefully check the coolant levels and top them off if needed.

* Replace the pressure cap. Line up the tabs on the cap with the cutouts of the fill spout and press down firmly. Twist the cap to the right to secure it.

* Clean up. Coolant is essentially a toxic chemical, so it is important to clean up appropriately. Use a hose to dilute any spills and dispose of the old antifreeze according to your area's EPA guidelines.

When all is said and done, changing your own antifreeze should take a couple hours and could save you up to $50. For more details about which antifreeze is best for your car visit www.peakauto.com.

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(ARA) - In today's economic times, it's more important than ever to protect the investment in your vehicle - whether it's a vintage collector, luxury car or an everyday car. Yet, there are many misconceptions about car maintenance that make it difficult to know how to best keep your car in good running condition. Properly maintaining the engine and using high-quality fuel in the right grade will go a long way to help protect the life of your vehicle.

Here are a few useful tips from Shell Oil Products U.S. that separate fuel fact from fuel fiction:

* Regular maintenance will help keep your vehicle running longer and can help save money at the pump: Fact
Keeping up on regular car care services, such as changing the engine air filter, oil changes and transmission checkups, can help your vehicle run more efficiently and avoid major expenses in the future - no matter how old your car is. Following a vehicle manufacturer's motor oil recommendation can improve gasoline mileage by 1 to 2 percent. Be sure to look for motor oil that says "Energy Conserving" on the API performance symbol to ensure it contains friction-reducing additives. Keeping your engine properly tuned can improve gas mileage by an average of 4 percent. Also, finding and correcting smaller mechanical problems before they turn into bigger ones can help save you money in the long run.

* All gasolines are the same: Myth
In addition to basic vehicle maintenance, gasoline choice plays a vital role in the cleanliness and performance of an engine. So if you've been using lower-quality gasolines in your vehicle, it is important to clean up the gunk left behind in your engine. Gunk, also known as carbon deposits, can begin to build up in as little as 5,000 miles.

Audi, BMW, General Motors, Honda, Toyota and Volkswagen believe that TOP TIER detergent gasolines will help keep engines cleaner than gasolines containing only the Lowest Additive Concentration (LAC) set by government standards. Using high-quality, TOP TIER gasolines like Shell Nitrogen Enriched Gasolines can help protect your engine against gunk and keep it performing at its best. For more information, visit www.passionate-experts.shell.com.

* Octane levels in fuel don't really make a difference: Myth
You probably associate octane with the numbers you see at the pump, but the technical explanation for octane is a fuel's ability to resist engine knock. If you use a lower octane fuel in an engine designed to use higher octane, engine knocking may occur, causing the car to shudder and lose performance. Most modern engines can sense knocking and go into a "safe mode" in order to protect the engine from serious damage, yet can reduce its ability to perform at its best.

According to Kelly Blue Book, 62 percent of new car models recommend premium fuel, which includes higher levels of octane. So check your owner's manual to determine what your manufacturer recommends. And if you have a performance vehicle that requires premium fuel (octane level 91 to 93, depending on the region), using the specified rating will help you achieve optimal engine performance.

However, it's important to remember that "premium grade" only references octane level, and doesn't always equal premium quality. Using a high-quality premium gasoline, like Shell V-Power, can provide benefits that go beyond octane. Shell V-Power contains a Nitrogen Enriched cleaning system with five times the amount of cleaning agents required by federal government standards, helping your vehicle achieve optimum performance.

Properly maintaining your engine is an important component in helping protect the life of a vehicle. In addition to basic vehicle maintenance like regular oil and filter changes and checking spark plugs, gasoline choice plays a vital role in the cleanliness and performance of an engine. Making these smaller, daily choices can help you to drive your vehicle longer, keeping more money in your pocket down the road.

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(ARA) - With the high cost of fuel, many pickup owners are feeling the burn at the pump. While some consumers may be able to purchase a new truck that gets better gas mileage, many of us are financially stuck with the truck we currently have. To cope, there are several things you can do to save gas money now.

Oil it up: As most auto body technicians will tell you, checking and changing your oil is one of the most overlooked items. Clean oil reduces wear caused by friction between moving parts and removes harmful substances from the engine, ensuring your engine will run at peak performance. And don't forget to keep it clean. You can increase your gas mileage up to 10 percent by ensuring your oil, air and fuel filters are clean.

Fill it up: Fill up with the lowest octane gasoline possible for your vehicle. That pricey premium fuel won't boost your truck's fuel economy or performance. Passing on pricey premium gasoline could save you hundreds of dollars a year, according to the Car Care Council. The council also suggests tightening your gas cap because fuel will evaporate from your tank if it has an escape. Loose, missing or damaged gas caps cause 147 million gallons of gas to evaporate each year, according to the Car Care Council. So be sure to tighten up that gas cap each time you fill up.

Pump it up: Check your tires to make sure they're properly inflated and aligned. Proper inflation can improve gas mileage up to 3 percent. If you don't know what the right pressure is for your tires and truck, consult your owner's manual or stop in at your local tire shop.

Ease on up: It's hard to make changes, but if you really want to see increased gas mileage, it's suggested you avoid unnecessary idling, revving your engine and slamming on the brakes. It is recommended that you stop and start gently, use cruise control when possible and reduce the amount of trips you make each day.

Roll on down the road: The easiest and most rewarding step you can take to see immediate gas mileage improvement is to install a truck bed cover on your pickup. A truck bed cover, also known as a tonneau cover, will reduce drag, making your vehicle more aerodynamic at high speeds. There are several different tonneau cover options available on the market today.

The Access Roll-Up Cover, manufactured by Agri-Cover, Inc., a North Dakota truck accessory company, is an affordable and high-quality option. Made of heavy-duty, double coated vinyl, the roll-up cover installs quickly and easily with a clamp-on installation and is designed specifically to fit your truck. Since the roll-up cover is lockable, it's also great for protecting your gear, all while improving the overall look of your vehicle. When not in use, the cover can be rolled up behind the cab and never has to be removed when hauling larger items. The company estimates that you can save over $200 within the first year of installing an Access Roll-Up Cover on your truck bed.

Richard F. of Bismarck, N.D, knows firsthand the benefits of having a roll-up tonneau cover on his truck.

"I put on many highway miles during the year and in talking to other owners with a similar truck without a box cover, I am amazed at the savings in gas mileage I'm getting with my cover. The Access Roll-Up Cover is such an attractive addition to my truck. It really finishes the look I want."

For more information on the Access Roll-Up Cover and to find out how much gas money you could save, visit www.accesscover.com or call (888) 281-7098.

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(ARA) - An annual tradition, Americans have their minds on resolutions for the New Year. While most hope to loosen their pants, others try to tighten their belt. Whether it is through eating out less, shopping less or traveling less, most try to cut costs in their life, timed to the change in the calendar.

Your vehicle can be a great "vehicle" to save money in 2010. By implementing some simple tips, you can save some serious cash in the New Year by paying attention to your vehicle's health.

After their homes, most Americans' second-largest financial investment is their vehicle, so helping it stay in good working order for as long as possible should be a top priority. But, since money is often tight in the given economy, you may be reluctant to spend on services or maintenance that you think can be put off at least for the short term. Such decisions, however, could potentially shorten the life of a vehicle, decrease its fuel efficiency or even put you and your family at risk.

To be prepared for the winter months ahead, here's a simple checklist of tips you should perform to help keep your vehicle running longer, safer and more cost-effectively:

* Check that tread: The economy has forced many to postpone tire purchases, but with the current winter conditions and unpredictable wet spring weather ahead, now is not the time to have low tread on your tires. The lower the tread depth, the less traction you will have on wet roads, and the greater the distance you will need to stop. Advances in tire technology are helping deliver a new generation of moderately priced tires that offer the all-season traction and long tread wear consumers have come to expect, but with enhanced rolling resistance to help save money on gas. For example, the proprietary tread compound used in Goodyear's new Assurance Fuel Max tires helps save 2,600 miles worth of gas over the life of a set of tires.

* Watch for inflation: As temperatures change, so can tire pressure. Proper tire inflation is essential for increased automotive safety, optimum driving performance and significant cost savings, including better fuel mileage. Tires should be inflated to the vehicle manufacturer recommendations printed on the vehicle door placard or in the glove box and should be checked monthly. Over-inflation can lead to premature or irregular tire wear and under-inflation reduces a vehicle's fuel efficiency by an average of 3.3 percent.

* Breathe free: Replacing a dirty air filter can increase a vehicle's life expectancy and fuel efficiency by reducing the strain on the engine, especially during warmer months. Over the winter months, salt, sand and other impurities may build up in a vehicle's air filtration system and could be robbing it of as much as 10 percent in fuel efficiency.

* Keep it clean: Consumers' cars, trucks or SUVs are likely weathering the harsh conditions and corrosive elements associated with winter, including freezing rain, snow, ice, sand and salt. Keeping vehicles clean will help protect them from the chemicals and dirt that may attack the car's finish and undercarriage. Be sure to use quality cleaners and waxes specifically designed for handling a car's finish as regular dish soap will actually break down your wax and could harm the underlying paint.

* Keep it flowing: Oil is the lifeblood of the engine, helping to keep it running efficiently and effectively. Not sure what oil to use? Defer to a professional or use the grade of motor oil recommended by the vehicle manufacturer to achieve optimum engine protection and fuel efficiency.

For more helpful car care advice or information on tires for cars, light trucks, SUVs and more, visit your local Goodyear retailer or go online to www.goodyeartires.com.

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