Greetings!    

  
I hope you and your significant other had a Happy Valentine's Day. 

Can you believe January is behind us?  Time goes by too fast. Alan Cox Automotive is 30 years old this year.

Thank you to the numerous customers who have been with us for over 20 years. We would not be where we are today without your loyalty and referrals.  If there is ever anything we can do for you, please let us know.

Drive Safely,

Sherry Richardson

 

P.S. Remember to schedule a mini service prior to your next road trip.

P.P.S. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

  

10 Things to Check to Winterize your Vehicle

1. Coolant Protection Level - water freezes at 32 degrees F. Coolant protection should be -34 degrees F. If you have to add water to your radiator have the coolant protection level checked to make sure it is at -34 degrees F.

2. Engine Oil - in Georgia use the same weight oil year round. 5w20 and 0w20 weight oil can be used year round. Change your oil every 3,000 miles for standard oil and every 5,000 miles if you use synthetic oil.

3. Windshield wipers and washer fluid - Make sure your wipers clean your window. Nothing worse than not being able to see during a storm.

4. Battery and charging system - Cold weather will kill a weak battery quickly. If your vehicle hesitates when starting, have the battery and charging system checked. Nothing worse than a vehicle that won't start on a cold, winter morning.

5. Is it time for a tune up or major service? Once a year or every 15,000 miles a major service or intermediate major service is recommended.

6. Check belts and hoses - Belts can be checked by looking for fine line cracks. Hoses deteriorate from the inside/out. If the hose is swollen or mushy when you squeeze it, replace the hose before it starts to leak.

7. Check brakes and tires - Have your brakes checked by a professional so that you know what percentage of brake pad/shoe is left. Check tires for nails; make sure there is plenty of tread with no bald spots or steel belts showing.

8. Check exhaust system - With the heater on and the windows shut tight, an exhaust leak can make you sick or be fatal. If the exhaust system rattles or you see rust, have the exhaust system checked to see if it needs to be replaced.

9. If your vehicle is four-wheel drive make sure it is working before you need it. Also make sure you are familiar with the procedure to engage four-wheel drive on your vehicle.

10. Carry an emergency kit inside your car:

a)      A flashlight, flares and a first-aid kit.

b)      Jumper cables and a tool kit. Tire chains if needed.

c)      A blanket, warm clothes and gloves.

d)     Paper towels.

e)      A bag of abrasive material, such as sand, salt or non-clumping kitty litter. Use this for added traction when a tire is stuck.

f)       An ice scraper. Snow brush and snow shovel if needed.

g)      Extra washer fluid.

h)      Extra food and water particularly if traveling with children.