It’s cold and snowing. Should you give your car’s engine a chance to warm up before going anywhere?

If forecasters are right, today will be cold, snowy and windy – a perfect time to stay snuggled up at home with a hot drink and a warm dog or cat. Nice image, but, if you’re like many of the rest of us, you’re going to have to go somewhere. That makes you wonder about your car. Should you start it and let it warm up before hitting the street?

It might surprise you to know the answer is no, according to Cliff Ruud, managing director of automotive for AAA. You should start the car and allow it to idle about as long as it takes to fasten your seat belt or clean off the windshield.

Ruud is quoted in a USA Today news story as saying, “Driving the car normally and avoiding hard acceleration brings the engine to a warmer temperature faster, and also reduces wear and exhaust emissions. Naturally, a little longer idle time is okay in the winter while you clear snow and ice from the windshield and other car parts.”

Ruud adds that, in winter, drivers should be diligent about checking their antifreeze level as well as their battery and charging systems. Drivers should not forget to inspect their tires for wear and damage and keep their headlights clean and their wipers changed.

If you find something wrong or don’t want to check things yourself, it’s time to see the trusted auto care technicians at Tracy’s Automotive.

Tracy’s Automotive is here to help you. If you don’t have time or feel you can take your car to the shop, Tracy’s Automotive will pick it up at your home or work. Then, after your car is serviced or repaired, Tracy’s Automotive will bring it back to you thoroughly cleaned.

Tracy’s passion for a better tire buying, auto care and auto repair experience drove us to develop the model of Tracy’s Automotive Tire Pros. Tracy’s has turned hard work and inspiration into a booming tire and auto repair provider. Now Tracy’s has three locations and serves customers all over Wichita and Goddard – Maple Street auto care and auto repair, E First Street N and W 21st Street N.. Tracy’s is thrilled to be a part of your family’s trusted brands for all auto repair and tire needs.

Tracy’s Automotive is a proud dealer for Jasper Engines and Vogue Performance Exhaust systems.

Tracy’s Automotive | Wichita Auto Care | Wichita Auto Repair | Maple Street Auto Care | Maple Street Auto Repair

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