Frontier Ford Superstore

 AS THE TEMPERATURE drops, so does

the cranking power of your battery. At 32

degrees, your battery has 15% less starting

power than it does at 80 degrees; at 0

degrees, it has 35% less power; at -20

degrees, it has less than half the cranking

power while the engine needs 3-1/2 times

the power to start.

 FAULTY BATTERIES cause more car

starting problems than any other factor.

Turn off all unnecessary lights and

accessories if vehicle-starts are sluggish.

 DIM HEADLAMPS or sluggish engine

starts may be signs a new battery is needed.

When buying a battery, rely on advice

given by auto parts and/or service personnel,

who will cross-reference your vehicle

to the industry standard for the proper

replacement battery.

 TODAY'S MAINTENANCE-FREE

batteries don't require regular fluid checks,

but it is wise to inspect the battery case

and cables for loose fits and/or damage.

 CORROSION, in the form of white or

yellowish powder, also can affect battery

performance. Clean the connections with

a stiff brush, using a solution of baking

soda and water.

 BATTERY: Make sure terminals are tight

and clean. If lights seem dim or vehicle

starts are sluggish, have the electrical

system, including battery, checked by

a technician.

 RADIATOR: Check coolant strength with

a hydrometer. Recommended protection

level is -36 degrees. Never check hot.

 BELTS/HOSES: Check belts for cracks

or fraying. Check hoses for leaks, bulges

or cracks. Make sure clamps are secure.

 WINDSHIELD WASHER/WIPERS:

Make sure reservoir is filled with washer

solvent. Replace wiper blades if needed.

 FLUIDS: Check oil, brake, transmission,

radiator coolant and power steering fluid

levels. Follow owner's manual directions.

 AIR FILTER: Hold air filter up to a light.

If you can't see through it, replace it.

 TIRES: Inspect wear. Check pressure

with a gauge when tires are cold. Refer

to owner's manual for recommended air

pressure and tread depth specifications.

 LIGHTS AND SIGNALS: Activate

to make sure all work.