Vehicle Storage for Winter

Winter can be brutal on any vehicle, whether it’s a brand new car, used car, or vintage hot rod. Freezing temperatures, snow buildup, animal infestation and salt damage can all deteriorate your vehicle.

If you plan on keeping your car in storage through the winter season, it’s best to winterize it before locking it up but most importantly be aware of animal infestation that can cause issues after the winter is over.

A Mysterious Car Fire:   It was springtime and the vehicle owner had taken his 1965 Mustang out of storage. The car seemed to be running funny so the owner parked it next to his house and left it running in hopes that would solve the problem. Suddenly, his neighbor ran over to tell him his car was on fire. By the time the fire department arrived, the Mustang had been destroyed and the house siding had melted from the blaze.

How Can Something So Small Cause Such a Big Problem? No one could figure out what had caused the fire, so I was brought in to investigate the situation. I searched through the remains of the car and when I took the air filter box apart, I found a mouse nest inside. The engine heated up the nest until it burst into flames.

Oftentimes, garages or storage facilities get infested with mice, and cars are the perfect shelter for these little rodents to make nests. They even like to use the insulation and padding in the car as nesting material.

So before you store your vehicle for the winter months ahead always ensure the place where you’re storing your vehicle is pest-free; and be sure to check your engine compartment and air filter box for rodent nests before taking your vehicle out of storage.

Sprinkling mothballs under the car to keep the mice away is not an effective method. Not only will it smell horrible, but it can be poisonous to pets.

If you think you have a problem with mice use  we recommend “Fresh Cab”` It's Safe & Natural: Keep your kids and pets safe, uses bio-based ingredients like natural oils, corn husks, lavender, fir, cedar, lemon and clary sage, it is the only EPA registered botanical rodent repellent for indoor storage areas and Smells good!

This product is available at: Audia Chevrolet; Sales Parts department.  Contact us 845-677-3136 or email: gmparts@audiamotors.com

FALL ROAD HAZARDS - HUDSON VALLEY

The fall foliage is beautiful and the time of the year where we are out enjoying the autumn colors, but along with the changing leaves comes fall hazard driving conditions.  So, before you head out on the road we want to ensure that you are aware of road hazards and provide you with basic tips to stay safe.

• Always keep your windshield clean of leaves.
• Watch for wet leaves on the roads; once leaves are wet they can become slippery and reduce traction and become a driving hazard.  
• Park free of leaf piles as these can be a fire hazard against catalyst converters.  
• As it gets darker earlier make adjustments be on the lookout, if night vision is a problem, adjust your driving times or find alternate lit routes.
• Fall also brings frost – keep a windshield scraper or small broom in your car and beware of black ice early morning and evening hours.
• Fall weather can present challenges to drivers. Remember when following other drivers, keep your distance.  If you are being tailgated, let the other driver pass.
• Take Your Vehicle  in for your maintenance and checked by a certified professional:  Battery cables, terminals, belts and hoses, air filters, windshield wipers and all fluids, Including:  anti-freeze, oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, automatic transmission fluid and windshield washer fluid.
• Check Your Tires. Are there signs of uneven tread wear? That could indicate under-inflation, unbalanced tires or misaligned wheels.
• Check your tire pressure with a gauge at least once a month and regularly inspect the tread depth. 
• Your tread will be even more important during the autumn months when wet, dead leaves cover the roadways.
• As we approach shorter days, be sure your headlights, taillights and turn signals are in proper working order and shining at the appropriate levels. 

From all of us at Audia Chevrolet, Happy Fall and be safe on the roads.

Hudson Valley New York - October Fall Car Care Month

October is Fall Car Care Month; a perfect time to remind our customers that as the weather starts to cool; it's important to take a proactive approach to preventive vehicle maintenance; which helps ensure safety and reliability and will lead to fewer unexpected vehicle repairs during the winter months ahead.




Whether you are a DIY’er  or have  your vehicle repaired by your technician it’s important to know the ten basic maintenance tips to keep your vehicle operating at its best.

• Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant.
• Check the hoses and belts to make sure they are not cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or showing signs of excessive wear.
• Check the battery and replace if necessary. Make sure the connection is clean, tight and corrosion-free.
• Check the brake system annually and have the brake linings, rotors and drums inspected at each oil change.
• Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, damage and broken supports or hangers if there is an unusual noise. Exhaust leaks can be dangerous and must be corrected without delay.
• Check engine performance to make sure it is delivering the best balance of power and fuel economy and producing the lowest level of emissions.
• Check the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system as proper heating and cooling performance is critical for interior comfort and for safety reasons such as defrosting.
• Inspect the steering and suspension system annually including shock absorbers, struts and chassis parts such as ball joints, tie rod ends and other related components.
• Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.
• Check the wipers and lighting so that you can see and be seen. Check that all interior and exterior lighting is working properly and replace worn wiper blades so you can see clearly when driving during precipitation.

We at Audia Chevrolet want our customers to be aware of regular car care maintenance and the benefits of maintaining your vehicle.  We care about the safety of our customers and want to offer you a Complimentary Mini Inspection with your regular service during the month of October.

We will inspect the following:  All fluids, Anti-freeze, Heating System, Belts, Hoses, Washer fluid, Wiper blades, Battery, Head lights, Tire pressure and condition of your tires.

Schedule your appointment today at Audia Chevrolet by calling (866) 643-7478 or book your appointment online at audiachevrolet,com

Leaving Your Pet in a Parked Hot Car

Dogs Die in Hot Cars

A pet can be a great companion when traveling in your car. But leaving your pet in the car while parked, especially on hot summer days is putting your pet at risk, even death.  Despite repeated media warnings, each year pets are left inside hot vehicles.  

Even with the windows left open, the temperature inside the vehicle can rise very quickly, creating a potentially fatal condition for your pet.  A dog or a cat's temperature is higher than humans and the temperature inside a car can rise to 150 degrees or higher in a matter of minutes.  It doesn't take long for heat to dilate blood vessels, shutdown organs and even clot blood.  

Make sure your pet has enough water on hot days and if you are traveling somewhere that does not allow pets, it’s better to leave your pet at home.

Summer Driving Tips for the Road

Summer has officially begun and is the busiest time of the year as people take to the roadways for vacation and enjoyment.




Summer heat and unexpected breakdowns are hard on everyone.  High summer temperatures also take their toll on your engine so we recommend to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual and speak with your auto service professional about maintaining your vehicle during the summer months.

Here’s a quick list of service items to review to have your vehicle running in tip top shape this summer.

• Have your air conditioning tested and inspected, along with belts and hoses
• Make sure your radiator and cooling system is thoroughly inspected
• Have your battery tested. It’s a lot easier to replace a battery than replacing a dead one on the side of the road
• Have brakes inspected, along with steering components
• Change the engine oil and filter according to the service schedule and check all fluid levels.
• Replace wiper blades once a year
• Have all your tires inspected and tire pressure including spare.
• Check all exterior lights
• Change the air filter. A dirty filter lowers gas mileage and reduces engine performance
• And last, buckle up and don’t leave home without your cell phone and your disabled parking permit 

Before you head out onto the road, stop into Audia Chevrolet for a complete inspection. Schedule your appointment online at Audiachevrolet.com or give us a call 866-643-7478

Avoiding Wiper Blade Damage - Part II

The following are major contributors to wiper damage. Some of these you can control and others are environmental concerns.

• Extremely dusty areas (such as driving on dirt roads) may cause the wipers rubber edge to wear quickly and unevenly.
• Sand and salt used on roads for increasing winter traction and ice control will cause the wiper blades to wear quicker. Areas with significant snowfall require more frequent blade replacements. 
• Heat and time may cause the rubber blades to take a "permanent set" resulting in the rubber not flexing and turning over uniformly. This condition may result in streaking and/or un-wiped areas.
• Rubber blades are easily cut or torn when using ice scrapers. Likewise pulling blades up off a frozen windshield can tear the rubber. Exercise caution when clearing ice and snow. 
• Using your wipers to "wear through" frost and ice, instead of allowing the defrosters to melt the ice, can dull, nick or tear the rubber blades. 
• Banging wipers on the glass to remove ice and snow may cause the blade to bend, dislodging the rubber and causing potential scratching of the windshield. 
• Ice can form in the pin joints of the wipers, which can cause streaking and un- wiped areas. To remove ice from pin joints, compress the blade and rubber edge with your hand to loosen the frozen joints. Consider using Winter Blades that have a rubber cover to avoid this condition. 

Scheduled Maintenance:

• Inspect your wiper blades every 4 - 6 months, or every 7500 miles for wear, cracking or contamination.

For issues or problems call Audia Chevrolet; we will inspect and install your wiper blades free of charge by a trained GM Certified Technician.  Call for an appointment at 845-677-6220; or email us at gmcertifiedservice@audiamotors.com 

April Showers: Are Your Wiper Blades Cleaning your Windshield?

Part I:

Most concerns about windshield wiper performance are the result of dirty wiper blades, damaged wiper blades, or worn out blades that are continuing to be used beyond their useful life. Depending on environmental conditions, wiper blades can have dramatic differences in lifespan.




Here are some tips and information to maximize wiper performance, avoid damage to the blades, and to avoid unnecessary replacements.

• Clean the windshield and the rubber on wiper blades; if this does not correct the problem, then replace the rubber elements.
• Clean the rubber blades using a lint free cloth or paper towel soaked with windshield washer fluid or a mild detergent. You should see significant amounts of dirt being removed on the cloth.
• Be sure to wash the windshield thoroughly when you clean the blades. Bugs, road grime, sap and a buildup of car wash/wax treatments may additionally cause wiper streaking.
• For a larger scale buildup on the windshield, use a non-abrasive cleaner such a Bon-Ami* cleanser with a wet sponge, being sure to use plenty of water to avoid scratching the glass. Flush the surface and body panels completely.
• For day-to-day exterior glass cleaning and to maintain a streak free appearance, we suggest Vehicle Care Glass Cleaner. GM Parts Vehicle Glass Car Cleaner Parts #19287404 (18oz). This product is an easy to use foaming cleaner that quickly removes dirt and grime from glass surfaces.
• Interior glass should be cleaned with plain, clean water to eliminate any film or haze on the window and help prevent fogging
• Avoid getting windshield washer fluid on your hands. Wear rubber gloves or avoid direct contact with washer fluid. Do not use gasoline, kerosene, or petroleum based products to clean wiper blades 

Scheduled Maintenance:

• Inspect your wiper blades every 4 - 6 months, or every 7500 miles for wear, cracking or contamination.

For issues or problems call Audia Chevrolet; we will inspect and install your wiper blades free of charge by a trained GM Certified Technician.  Call for an appointment at 845-677-6220; or email us at gmcertifiedservice@audiamotors.com 

WARM WEATHER MEANS.... POTHOLES ON THE ROAD

As the snow continues to melt on the roadway and the warm weather starts to set in; you will notice potholes on the roads which are unavoidable, no matter what road you are travelling the damage to your car from potholes can be severe and dangerous.




If at all possible avoid a pothole and if you hit a pothole it can be quite damaging to your tires, suspension and wheel alignment.  Pothole damage will allow for premature tire wear, and cause other suspension and steering issues which leads to unforeseen expenses on repairs.

Here are a few things to check to avoid problems with your vehicle:
• Does your car pull to one side?
• Turn off your radio and listen for odd noises, rattles and vibrations.
• Do you find yourself holding the steering wheel to one side?
• Does the car want to drift to one side on its own?
• Is the steering wheel off center?
• MOST IMPORTANT-Walk around your car and look for any signs of damage.

If you notice any of these signs, please have your car inspected by a trained GM Certified Technician at Audia Chevrolet.  Call for an appointment at 845-677-6220; Or email us at www.gmcertifiedservice@audiamotors.com.  

We will:
• Check Alignment, Steering and Suspension parts
• Tire rotation and balance, Check all Tires and Wheels for damage          
• Inspect undercarriage for pothole and winter-related damage

Total Inspection Cost $69.95

Don't Get Stuck with a Dead Battery

When Should I Change My Car Battery

Most car batteries will last for 4-6 years, no matter how many miles you put on your car.  In fact, if you car is not used a lot it may cause the battery to fail prematurely.  If your car battery is more than three years, you need to have it tested. If it's test weak, replace it. You don't want to be stranded on the side of the road, or stuck in the morning on your way to work.

Remember, it's not the miles; it's the years that matter. Another thing to remember is that a car battery will fail most of the time without warning.

So, if you car battery is more than three years old, bring it us to have it tested.

We will test your battery free of charge.  

Call or book your appointment online at audiachevrolet.com 

Don't wait until  the battery fails. 

Winter Maintenance for Your Vehicle

Radiator Coolant Service

Have you recently changed your radiator fluid? And, why do you need to change during the winter.   

During the winter months it helps keep the engine block from freezing in extreme cold temperatures when the vehicle is parked.  Changing the fluid helps keep your vehicle running well and helps with dirt and other contaminants that can build up in the fluid. 

This is the most vital part of your car's cooling system. The radiator fluid, or antifreeze coolant runs throughout your car's cooling system and helps keep your car engine cool while running.  

Most car manufacturers recommend that you change the radiator fluid in your vehicle every 24,000 to 36,000 miles, or every 24 to 36 months or refer to your owner's manual.

Book your appointment online at audiachevrolet.com 

and take advantage of our special offer 

Snow Pack Wheels Can Affect Your Tire Balance!

If your car does not feel right, or it’s shaking while driving down the road it could be due to snow packed inside and around the tire rim. 

Snow packed around the inside of the tire rim can throw off the wheel balance, causing the car to shake.  The fix is easy, remove the snow.  If the snow is packed and turned to ice you may need to bring your vehicle in for service so we can get it in up onto the lift, but usually it’s not a big deal.

If after the snow is removed, the car does not feel right, something else is wrong please bring your vehicle in and have us to take a look.

Is Your Vehicle Ready for the Storm.

Here are a few tips that will help ensure you and your car will make it through a storm. A properly maintained car will keep you safe on the road.  

- Make sure you car is up to date with all recommended services.
- Check your wiper blades and consider winter wiper blades.
- Make sure all exterior lights are working.
- Ensure your car’s heater and defroster are working properly. You’re going to want a nice warm
  car on these cold winter days.
- Check the condition of your car’s tires and consider snow tires. Snow tires have a huge
   advantage over regular tires during cold winter driving.
- Make sure the engine has the proper antifreeze protection, if not; the engine may freeze
   in frigid temperatures.
- If your car battery is more than 3 years old, stop by and will check.  A weak battery will
  fail with out warning and may leave you stranded out in the cold.
- Make sure your windshield washer fluid is topped off.  And always carry an extra bottle in
  the trunk.
- Carry a blanket in the car, along with drinking water, a flashlight and snacks.
- Make sure you have your cell phone and a list of emergency contacts.
- Keep a small shovel and sand or kitty litter for traction if you get stuck in snow or ice.
- Slow down during a storm.  Excessive speed causes more accidents than any other reason.
- Ensure friends and family know your whereabouts during a storm.

I hope you found my tips helpful.  Please feel free to leave a comment and forward this article to a friend or family member that may benefit from the information. 

If you have any questions, please call 845-677-3406 and we will be happy to help in anyway we can.   

Audia Chevrolet Automotive Blog: Winter Storm

Audia Chevrolet Automotive Blog: Winter Storm:  Is Your Defroster and Heating System Working Properly  Your car’s heating system is vital to your safety.  It not only keeps you warm ...

Winter Storm

 Is Your Defroster and Heating System Working Properly 

Your car’s heating system is vital to your safety.  It not only keeps you warm but keeps the windshield and rear window clear of ice and from fogging up. Check all the functions of the heater and defroster.  Ensure the heater fan motor is working on all speeds and make sure that the heater changes from the defrost mode, heater mode (floor vent) and regular vent.  Move the temperature selector from cold too hot to ensure that the heater system is responding correctly. Also, check that the rear defroster is working properly.  If any of these functions are not operating properly, see your service technician as you may need to have it repair.