|
Ask
Andy your car maintenance questions!
|
FEATURED
QUESTION:
What do I need in a Winter Emergency Kit?
ANDY'S
ANSWER:
We hope you never need it, but here is what we suggest for a basic emergency kit. Be sure you keep things like the flares, food, sand, blankets and other items that you don't want to get wet in a plastic tote or other waterproof container.
- Ice scraper and snow brush
- Small folding shovel
- Bag of sand for traction
- Tool kit
- Flashlight and spare batteries
- Flares and reflectors
- Jumper cables
- First aid kit
- Snack food and water
- Warm blankets or sleeping bag
- Warm gloves and boots
- Cell phone
Ask
Andy another question»
Want
more great car care tips? Check
out Car
Care 101 on our website!
|
|
|

WHAT'S
NEW WITH WALKER TIRE
|
Yokohama Tires, known worldwide for their commitment to environmental responsibility, has chosen Walker Tire & Auto Service as their newest distributor in the Omaha, NE, metro area. The Fall 2007 issue of Tire Business magazine states, "Yokohama views its efforts to become 'greener' as a moral responsibility and has set the bar for others to reach." Yokohama requests that all of their tire distributors follow environmental management practices on a par with Yokohama Rubber's own - a request Walker Tire is proud to honor.
Brad Burklund, General Manager of Walker Tire & Auto Service explains, "We've always been about conservation and environmental responsibility. Recycling dirty fluids, old tires, broken parts - it just doesn't make sense to treat the planet like a big trash heap. It's all part of that mindset of doing the right thing whether it's seen by our customers or not."
Brad says that Yokohama is selective about who they have as distributors, but Walker Tire is selective about what brands are offered, too. "We know our customers care as much about the planet as we do. Green really does matter! But not every tire manufacturer that claims to be green is good enough for us. We want the best tires at the best value AND a commitment to green manufacturing. Yokohama is one of the few that has the high standards we require at Walker Tire & Auto Service."
Visit Car Care 101 to learn more about Tires>>
|
TOP TIPS: Save some Cash at the Pump
Inflate Your Tires to Proper Levels
According to national averages, tires are under-inflated by 10 to 15 percent. Three to four pounds of air doesn't seem like a lot, but it creates more rolling resistance and cuts fuel mileage by up to 3 percent, which is about 10 cents a gallon. Come in to any Walker Tire & Auto Service, and we'll be glad to check your tire inflation level for you.
| Fuel Economy Benefit: |
1-3% |
| Equivalent Gasoline Savings: |
$0.8-$.10/gallon |
Oh, the Weather Outside is Frightful ….
Yes, it's that time of year again. But with proper auto maintenance, you can make sure your car is ready to keep you and your family safe, no matter how frightful the weather may be outside. Here are a few top tips for getting your car in tip-top shape for Winter.
Exterior of the car:
- Windshield wipers. Check windshield wiper blades and replace the blade if it streaks or if over 1 year old. Consider using winter blades for tough ice buildups.
- Lights. Check to make sure all lights are in working condition. With lower visibility in the winter, you want to make sure other drivers can see you!
Under the car:
- Tires. Check tires for wear, cracking, or alignment issues. Check tire pressure at least once a month. Improperly inflated tires can reduce traction when you need it the most.
- Brake pads and shoes. Replace worn pads and have your brakes professionally inspected to be sure you have immediate response in icy or slippery situations.
Under the hood:
- Top off your fluids: engine coolant, power steering, brake, radiator, windshield washer and battery fluids. Check your owner's manual or antifreeze container for specifications. Flush the cooling system every two years. Use winter windshield washer fluid.
- Gas. Keep your gas tank at least half full. This helps reduce moisture problems in the fuel system.
- Belts. Look for cracks or fraying edges in the belt. Change belts that are worn or cracked.
- Oil. Get an oil and filter change, recommended at every 3,000 miles.
- Spark plugs. Check spark plugs. Replace if they are worn or misfiring.
- Battery. The cold temperature increases the battery workload and can take a toll. Have your battery checked before winter for sure starting.
We
know you’re busy. Rather than do
these things yourself, why not bring your car in to
Walker Tire & Auto Service and let our team
of car care experts prepare your car for the weather
ahead? For a location near you, check www.WalkerTire.com
|