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ODOT Winter Road Guide
January 2016
Car care critical for winter driving safety
Instrument Panel Review
Every time you start your car they
glow to greet you, but usually, after a
few seconds of engine operation, they
fade away—hopefully not to be seen
again until the next engine start.
“Motorists need to be aware of
the critical ‘big three’ warning lights,
which include those that monitor
engine oil pressure, engine coolant
temperature, and vehicle charging
system,” says Tom Strandberg, ODOT
Public Affairs. “To reduce the chances
of vehicle damage or a roadside
breakdown, these warning lights
require prompt and proper action
when they illuminate.”
:hen the ignition key is ¿rst turned
to the Or position, all of the vehicle’s
warning lights should
illuminate. The “big three” lights
typically remain on until the engine is
started and running. If a warning light
fails to illuminate at this time, have the
related system checked out by an auto
repair facility.
Once the engine is running, all the
warning lights should go out within
a few seconds. If any light remains
illuminated, consult your owner’s
manual.
The most common vehicle
de¿ciencies include weak batteries,
worn or damaged wiper blades,
clogged air ¿lters, low washer Àuid,
dirty or low motor oil, and low
anti-freeze levels.
“Breakdowns are most often
preventable by simply ensuring that
Wintertime check list
Use this handy checklist to make sure you’re
prepared every time you take a trip in Oregon’s winter
wonderland.
your vehicle is regularly maintained,”
Strandberg said. “The state of health
and durability of things like batteries,
Àuid levels, and tire conditions all
come into question especially during
the winter season when extremely cold
temperatures can put even the most
reliable devices to the test.”
The Winter Car Care
12-point inspection includes:
• Battery check for loose cables and
corroded terminals
• Anti-freeze check for strength in
the radiator overÀow reservoir
• Oil level check with the vehicle’s
dipstick
• Brake Àuid level check
• Power steering Àuid level check
• Automatic transmission Àuid level
check
• Inspection of all belts and hoses
• Inspection of the air ¿lter
• :indshield washer Àuid level
check
• Inspection of windshield wipers
• Light and turn signal inspection
• Inspection of tire tread wear and
inÀation if necessary
Ƒ Tools: jack, lug wrench, shovel
Ƒ Chains or traction tires
Ƒ Flares
Ƒ Extra warm clothes, boots, hat, gloves
Ƒ Ice scraper and snow brush
Ƒ Cell phone and car adaptor
Ƒ Rechargeable flashlight
Ƒ Extra food and water
Ƒ First aid kit
Ƒ Matches or lighter
Ƒ Battery jumper cables
Ƒ Extra food and water
Ƒ Blanket/sleeping bag(s)
Ƒ Paper towels
Ƒ Pocket knife
Ƒ Extra washer fluid
Ƒ Highway Map
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