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Be a Safe and Smart Holiday Consumer

California's Department of Consumers Affairs Offers Tips to Help Motorists Weather the Storms!

Winter can bring out the worst in a vehicle. What were only minor inconveniences during the summer can prove to be major problems during the winter driving season. With millions of Californians traveling over the holidays, the Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Automotive Repair (DCA/BAR) advises motorists that the best way to reduce the likelihood of getting stranded by the side of the road is to winterize their cars now.

Below are some specific points that need attention when winterizing a car:

• Check your headlights and battery. Make sure battery cable connections are tight and corrosion-free.
• Make sure that all hoses and belts are in good working order. Check for cracks, soft spots or bulges in hoses. If a problem exits, have the hose or belt replaced.
• Change wiper blades, if worn or cracked.
• Never fill windshield wiper fluid reservoir with water. The proper fluid is available at auto parts stores.
• Check to make sure the heater and defroster work.
• Check antifreeze protection levels in your cooling system.
• Check wear and condition of all tires, including the spare tire. Check all tires to make sure they're inflated to the manufacturers recommended pressure.
• Have brakes checked to make sure there are no problems.

Many Californians will be heading into the mountains this holiday season to enjoy fun in the snow or maybe a little skiing. If you're planning a trip, don't forget to carry tire chains. It's also a great idea to keep a winter safety kit in your car at all times. Items in your kit should include:

• Battery booster cables
• Large flashlight and extra batteries
• Basic first aid supplies
• Extra blanket or two and extra clothing
• A battery-powered radio with spare batteries
• Tool kit (screwdriver, pliers, adjustable wrench)
• Bottled water and non-perishable food
• Highway safety flares in good condition
• Spare electrical fuses and a windshield ice scraper

An old duffel bag or backpack is a great way to store these supplies so they don't rattle around in your trunk.

Try to keep your gas tank at least half full and, if you have a cellular phone, be sure it's completely charged.

In addition to registering and regulating California automotive repair facilities, BAR assists consumers with complaints involving automotive repair. For more information, log onto the DCA Web site at www.dca.ca.gov or call 1-800 952-5210. Tips for winterizing a vehicle are also available on the BAR Web site at www.bar.ca.gov.

For more tips on how to "Be a Safe and Smart Holiday Consumer," check the Department of Consumer Affairs' Web site. The California Department of Consumer Affairs promotes and protects consumer interests. Call (800) 952-5210 or visit the Department's Web site for information on a variety of helpful consumer topics.