With the cold weather fast approaching, car troubles are inevitable. Some students have already encountered problems with their cars.
Laura Walz, senior, has had problems with her 1987 Sundance. On more than one occasion the problem has been her water pump. ÒI was driving down hill, and as I came to the lights, the car died. It turned out to be the water pump,Ó Walz said.
Walz said she takes precautions when driving in the winter. She said she makes sure her windows are clear of ice and snow so she can see whatÕs going on around her.
Katie Kresl, senior, also has problems with her Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme when she drives on the interstate. ÒIt jerks when I accelerate and when I stop, it stalls,Ó Kresl said. Kresl does not think it is necessary to take her car to a mechanic.
If problems start to arise, taking your car to a mechanic can be beneficial. This allows problems to stop before they start. Tom Headley, mechanic at Jensen Tire at 3302 N. 90th St., offered suggestions for making winter a safe driving season. ÒKeep your car tuned up and running right,Ó Mr. Headley said.
Mr. Headley also suggests checking the antifreeze level and making sure it is below 40 degrees.
Many underclassmen will soon have the privilege of driving. With this privilege comes the responsibility of staying safe.
Jen Silvey, sophomore, said she will have her car checked out all the time to ensure her safety when she starts driving this month.
Freshman Sarah Mancuso had a bad experience while learning how to drive. ÒI backed into a ditch while pulling out of my driveway,Ó said Mancuso. She plans to take DriverÕs Education to help her stay safe when she starts driving.
Junior RenŽe Peters luckily was able to take her 1992 Mercury Sable to a mechanic the day after her brakes went out. Fortunately, no damage was done and no one was hurt. ÒI was in the Burger King parking lot, and I was going slow so it turned out okay. Ó
Brake troubles can be helped by having your brakes checked regularly. ÒCheck your brakes to keep yourself and others safe,Ó Mr. Headley said.
This winter, Òany car can be a safe car, as long as you know how to drive.Ó Mr. Headley said.