User Guide

11
TRAVEL TIPS THE WHOLE YEAR THROUGH
• Always keep at least half a tank of gas in your vehicle.
• Check all fluids, including oil, antifreeze, transmission, brake and
power-steering fluids and windshield solvent.
• Make sure your wipers work and that the blades get replaced periodically.
• Frequently check tires for pressure and air. Not only are properly inflated tires
safer, they give you better fuel mileage and longer tire life. Make sure your
spare tire is properly inflated and ready in case you need it.
• Make an appointment for an inspection. Clean air filters and new spark plugs
mean better gas mileage.
• Have your tires rotated. While you’re at it, have the wheel alignment checked.
Potholes can affect wheel alignment. This not only causes handling
problems, but tires wear out faster.
• Let someone know where you’re going, what time you’re leaving and
when they can expect you—especially when you’re driving though isolated
areas. Take a map and cell phone with you.
IF YOU BECOME STRANDED:
• Call for roadside assistance.
• Stay in your vehicle. That’s where you’re safest. Motorists can be injured if they
exit their vehicles on busy roads. Emergency crews can find your vehicle a lot
easier than they can find you alone. If the temperature is below freezing, you
can avoid frostbite and hypothermia by staying in the vehicle and out of the
snow and wind.
• Tie a brightly colored cloth to the exterior of the vehicle.
• Keep the doors locked. If strangers approach, roll the window down just
enough to ask them to get help.