If you break down at the side of the road in Canada, chances are pretty good you'll get help from another motorist.
According to a recent survey, about half of Canadians would stop to help a motorist in need.
Another one-third of the population would decide whether to pull over depending on the motorist's appearance (so it pays to spruce up a bit before you step out).
The survey was conducted by Leger Marketing on behalf of Car Care Canada to help promote October as Car Safety Month.
Why even take the chance you'll need to rely on the goodwill of your fellow Canadians? With winter approaching, you can do a lot to ensure you won't get stranded. Follow these 10 winter-preparation tips to keep safer on the road and reduce your gas expenses:
1. Check your battery. Are your battery terminals covered in a crusty, white deposit? That corrosion can insulate the terminals and prevent your car from receiving its first boost of ignition-sparking power.
Scrape away the deposits with a wire brush. And if your battery is getting old, replace it.
2. Don't over idle your car. Your engine needs only 30 seconds of idling to warm up sufficiently in winter. By limiting your idling time to half a minute, you'll not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also save on fuel.
3. Keep you gas tank at least half full. This tip limits condensation in your tank and reduces gas line freezing. Adding a little gas line antifreeze every second fill-up will also help prevent gas line freezing.
4. Check the coolant (antifreeze). Engine coolant (which either cools or warms your engine, depending on the season) should be flushed and refilled every two years in most vehicles.
5. Check your tire treads and pressure. Tire tread condition is crucial when driving on ice and snow. Also check inflation.
6. Keep your windshield washer/anti-freeze solution topped up. When melting snow and road grime gang up on your windshield, you'll need a healthy supply to see clearly. Check your fluid reservoir frequently, especially during heavy usage.
7. Replace wiper blades every six months. Consider special snow blades if the weather dictates.
8. Make sure your heater and defroster work properly. Signs of potential heater problems include a chirping or screeching sound when you turn on your heater, an unusually stiff dashboard heater-control lever, moisture accumulation inside your car and, most obviously, a lack of heat.
9. Be prepared for an emergency. Keep the following items in your trunk: ice scraper, windshield de-icer, flashlight, whisk broom, blanket, extra clothes, candle and matches, bottled water, snacks, medications and a first-aid kit. And carry a cell phone.
10. When the weather's really bad, drive only if you must.
