DEARBORN, Mich. — AAA has issued a statewide Arctic Air Advisory as frigid temperatures continue to blast Michigan, according to a news release Monday.
Temperatures are expected to hover in the teens and single digits throughout this week, with wind chills dropping into the negatives.
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Extremely cold temperatures can wreak havoc on vehicle functionality, and AAA is offering the following tips to help motorists keep their vehicles road-ready:
- Battery: Have charging system tested to ensure it’s fully charged and in good condition.
- Gas: Keep tank at least half full to avoid gas line freeze-up.
- Windshield Washer Fluid: Ise one with winter solvent that won’t freeze.
- Engine Coolant: Use one that provides anti-freeze protection down to the lowest temperatures you are likely to encounter. -30 degrees Fahrenheit is a good guideline.
- Vehicle Storage: Park in a garage. If you don’t have access to a garage, put a tarp over the hood or park in a wind-protected area.
- Car Doors: Prevent freezing. Place a plastic trash bag between the door or window glass and the frame.
- Car Wash: Postpone until temps rise above freezing.
During single-digit cold snaps, calls for dead batteries and other service-related needs across the state are expected to jump.
AAA offers these additional reminders:
- Always travel with a cell phone and car charger.
- AAA recommends that if motorists become stranded, it is best to stay with the vehicle. If the engine can be started, run it only long enough to keep warm. Make sure the exhaust pipe is snow-free.
Motorists needing road service can request it from AAA at www.aaa.com, via the AAA mobile app or by calling 800-AAA-MICH.
