By Jack Mazurak
Contributing Writer

With winter approaching, car owners should prepare for the annual onslaught of snow, ice and cold weather that can wreak havoc on a vehicle.

Don Bouch, owner of Bouch's Automotive in Olean, suggests motorists pay attention to their car's needs before the cold weather sets in.

"You should keep your gas tank filled and use a bottle of isopropyl dry gas every other fill-up during the winter" to help prevent condensation, which could freeze and clog the gas line, from forming in the tank, Bouch said.

Paul Slawiak, store manager at Valley Tire Co. in Olean, said drivers should attend to battery needs during the winter months as well.

"Cold weather starts require more voltage from the battery, so it is a good idea to clean and tighten the terminals," Slawiak said.

Slawiak said the purchase of snow tires also improves winter driving.

"Snow tires have deeper tread, which helps dissipate the snow underneath, providing more grip," he said.

According to the Chrysler Web site, owners should have their car's tires rotated and balanced twice a year to guard against uneven wear and promote longevity.

New York law requires a minimum of 2/32-inch tread. Owners can check their tire treads by placing a penny upside down in the tread. The required minimum would roughly reach the tip of Abraham Lincoln's nose on the penny.

Bouch said motorists should frequently check their lights, including four-way flashers and brake lights, to abide by New York law.

According to the General Motor's Web site, routine maintenance could help prevent future problems.

"Small problems only become larger when left unattended and can lead to expensive towing charges, repair bills and poor performance," it said.

"Having routine oil changes and lube jobs will make your car last longer," said Bill Gilliland of Quality Quick Lube in Olean. A typical oil change will cost just over $20, and should be done every three months or 3,000 miles, he said.

Bouch recommended motorists flush their cooling system every two to three years to keep it clean and should change the fuel filter every year or 15,000 miles.

GM suggests every week car owners check oil, wiper fluid, brake fluid and antifreeze levels, along with condition and pressure of the tires, including the spare tire.

"If something goes wrong, I know where to go," said freshman Karl Strauss, who has a 1986 Buick. "I don't have a weekly maintenance schedule, though."

Owner's manuals contain tire pressure figures and general under-the-hood directions. Owners in need of another manual can order it from a dealer or through the car company's Web site.

The Chrysler Web site recommends owners inspect the condition of belts and hoses under the hood for cracks or rotted areas. Rubber can break easily and can cause major damage if left unattended.

Despite these precautions, car trouble can strike at anytime. Motorists can prepare for this, as well.

"It's a good idea to keep a flare, flashlight and a blanket or extra coat in your trunk in case you get stuck somewhere," Bouch said.

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