By ROB JONAS
That chill in the air, those brightly colored leaves on the trees and those shorter days can only mean one thing: winter is coming.
A key component for getting through the winter is having a reliable vehicle that can get you through whatever Mother Nature throws at the Capital District. To ensure that your car, pickup truck, van or SUV is ready, Schenectady Auto Service is offering a seasonal package to examine your vehicle.
“For $80, we check everything from front to back,” said Schenectady Auto Service owner Nick Falvo. “This way, you get a basic knowledge of how your car is running, and from there you can address any issues. It’s a cheap price to see how your car will weather the winter season.”
Tires are a key element to handling the winter weather. Falvo said a good all-season tire with an aggressive tread can help drivers deal with the snow, ice and rain that can fall in our region.
Another key component Falvo talked about is the condition of your vehicle’s fluids. “Your antifreeze needs to be checked. It should be flushed every three to four years. Your transmission fluid should be up and clean for good running. Oil has to be clean and changed,” he said.
The electrical system is another area of concern as winter approaches. The battery, spark plugs and alternator must all be in good shape in order for the car to start when the temperature dips below freezing, as it frequently does.
“You don’t want a dead battery at minus 10 degrees,” said Falvo.
The car also needs to make reliable stops and steer through the snow and slush. To that end, Falvo and his staff will check your vehicle’s brakes and front end to make certain there isn’t too much wear and tear on them.
Schenectady Auto Service is located at 2401 Van Vranken Ave. in Schenectady. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 518-372-7176 or visit quickautofix.com.
