Staff Writer
Mechanic Mike Kitchen of Kitchen’s Garage on Bangor Street in Houlton offers some winter car care tips.
The first thing that Kitchen advises is to check all fluids in the car.
UNDER THE HOOD – Mechanic Mike Kitchen of Kitchen’s Garage on Bangor Street in Houlton takes time out from working under the hood for a quick photograph. Kitchens have been in the car and truck repair service for more than 20 years in Houlton.
“Make sure the radiator (antifreeze) is set for the colder temperatures,” he said.
One item that people are starting to use less is an engine block heater, but Kitchens will install them if a driver wishes.
“Manufacturers have cars starting so much better,” Kitchen said. “Unless the factory puts them in a car, a block heater isn’t usually put in anymore.”
Other components to check are your tires and battery.
“Make sure you have good tires for the winter,” Kitchen explained. “If your car is front-wheel drive, it is recommended to put snow tires all the way around. Studded tires are still a driver’s preference.”
A battery’s charge typically last around five years. To make sure it starts in the coldest of winter weather, check the date when it was installed.
“Make sure you have a good battery. Anything after five years, you are on borrowed time,” Kitchen said. “I see a lot of them going 10 years, but you are taking your chances.”
The thing that sometimes go overlooked until they give out — wipers.
“Check your wiper blades to make sure they are in good shape for the winter,” Kitchen said. The summer heat can lead to cracking and the rubber may become brittle.
Another factor leading to wear on the wipers is many people do not clean off the top of their cars, and when their car heats up, the snow moves when the brakes are hit, and then comes all of the snow from the top onto the windshield. Hitting the wipers, the weight of the snow can damage or break the wiper motor.
“People need to sweep off their cars before they travel,” said Kitchen. “It’s common sense and it’s a safety factor. Defrost the vehicle so you can see clearly.”
In the trunk of the car, it is recommended that drivers carry an emergency kit consisting of the following items: flares/reflectors; shovel, booster cables; flashlight with spare batteries; blankets and large plastic bags for warmth; extra clothing; mittens and hats; non-perishable food and kitty litter for traction. Kitchen offers one more thing … a can of HEET dry gas.
“The dry gas will help in case you get a dose of water in your fuel,” he said. “It will help your lines from freezing up while you are on the highway. And, keep your gas tank above half full at all times.”
The last piece of advice Kitchen offers is simple: regular maintenance.
“A person’s regular mechanic will check tire pressure, fluids and give the car a good going over to prepare it for winter,” Kitchen said.
