& Things To Look For in a Winter Beater

Bankrate.com 7 THINGS TO LOOK FOR ( IN A WINTER BEATER If you dread taking your car out in the snow and slush and exposing it to the elements, you might invest in a "beater," or a no-frils car you drive only in winter. When it comes to beaters, looks don't matter. With these cars, it's all about function and safety. Here are some important features to check on a beater before buying. CHECK THE TIRE TREADS ŠTRACTION It's critical to make sure the tires on a winter beater are rated for rain and snow, and that they have plenty of tread life. Winter tires are designed to withstand colder temperatures and maximize traction due to their deeper tread. DOES THE BATTERY TURN ALL-WHEEL-DRIVE OVER IN THE COLD? OFFERS GREATER TRACTION Test the battery as well as the alternator, the part that charges the battery and powers the car's electrical system when the vehicle is running. If the car has trouble starting, it might be the battery but could also be the alternator, so both must be tested to rule out any problems. All-wheel-drive can keep the car from getting stuck in deep snow or help you climb a hill covered in slick pavement. CHECK THE CAR'S WEATHERSTRIPPING Dampness and musty odors can signal leaks in the weatherstripping around the doors or windshield. Look under the floor mats to feel the carpet and check for leaks, mainly on the passenger side floorboard. Also, try to test-drive the vehicle at highway speeds when excessive wind noise or drafts will make inadequate weatherstripping obvious. CHECK FOR GOOD HEATING AND DEFROST SYSTEMS These are among the most important pieces of equipment on a beater. Check the heater, battery, radiator, and front and rear defrosters for signs of aging or lackluster performance. These are the parts that are among the most vulnerable components to cold-weather failure. LOOSE STEERING CAN BE HAZARDOUS Check out the car's steering parts like the tie rods, rack and pinion, and idler arms. Looseness in these components will create extremely hazardous driving in snow and ice, or on wet roads, as severe oversteering, understeering or loose steering can cause accidents. CONSIDER ADDED SAFETY FEATURES A winter beater doesn't need a lot of bells and whistles, but certain extras can be a huge help for safe winter driving. Most modern vehicles have antilock brakes as standard equipment, and many have traction and stability control as well. These items will enhance vehicle safety in bad-weather driving and are worth paying a little extra for. SOURCE: Bankratecom Winter Car Guide Design: Pamela Sisson.