As Rio Grande Valley residents prepare for an arctic blast that will push through the area this evening, vehicle owners are reminded to get their cars, SUVs and pickup trucks prepared as well.
The drop in temperatures can cause the tire pressure to drop, which can lead to dangerous driving conditions, said E.J. Garcia, an employee at Discount Tire Store in Brownsville, off U.S. Expressway 77/83.
“It’s very crucial to your safety (to the get the tire pressure checked) and to the wear and tear of your tires,” Garcia said.
A few vehicles waited in line Thursday morning to get the tire pressure checked at Discount Tire Shop, which provides the service for free.
Garcia said this week has been very busy with vehicle owners getting their cars, trucks and SUVs checked before the colder weather arrives.
“Air pressure actually helps your tires wear down evenly and definitely helps with the wear and tear of your tires,” Garcia said. “With the fluctuation of the temperatures your tire will lose pressure.”
The free tire pressure check will be available until 6 p.m. today, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday.
Not only should you get the tire pressure checked on your vehicles, but also the wiper blades, battery and check your oil and anti-freeze.
AAA recommends the following if you are traveling in cold weather:
>> Keep a bundle of cold-weather gear in your car, such as extra food and water, warm clothing, a flashlight, a glass scraper, blankets, medications, and more;
>> Make certain your tires are properly inflated and have plenty of tread;
>> Keep at least half a tank of fuel in your vehicle at all times;
>> Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage;
>> Do not use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface, such as on ice and snow.
