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Preparing your car for the cold

Newswatch 16's Chelsea Strub explains why some auto shops are preparing for a storm after the storm, and how you can be better prepared in cold weather.

KINGSTON, Pa. — Much like the conditions of the roads during a sloppy snowfall, Thomas Tranguch, the owner of T&F Tire Supply in Kingston, says his schedule is a mess.

"Everybody's schedule is impacted. So, we got the calls this morning, those who couldn't come to work, who didn't, weren't comfortable driving, so we'll probably be dealing with that mess tomorrow," said Tranguch.

Workers are trying to fit in all the rescheduled appointments and a round of new ones, which happens when snow or a cold snap brings vehicle issues to light.

"We'll probably be busy the rest of the week, people dealing with what happened today and seeing that we still do have winter in northeastern Pennsylvania, cold weather, and snow," added Tranguch.

Besides tires, the folks at the shop say they handle a lot of battery issues when it gets this cold.

"Batteries are slow cranking or not cranking at all or dead batteries, not charging. Cold weather takes a lot when the engine is cold. It takes a lot of voltage to turn the engine over getting started," said European technician Larry Neely.

That's especially the case for newer cars with a lot of electronics inside.

"Many microprocessors in today's modern car require a lot of power. So even if you're not driving a lot, that battery could be drained," added Tranguch.

In addition to checking your batteries, if you want to avoid a trip to the shop between snowstorms, you should also check your fluids.

"You do want to make sure you have checked the engine oil level. For one, make sure your oil is sufficient and clean for the winter, for going into winter. And you also want to top off the windshield washer, so you can clean your windshield as you're going down the road, with the roads are so sloppy right now," said Neely.

If you're not savvy with vehicles, the folks at T& F recommend getting a winter car check-up before hitting the road.

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