For Immediate Release 
April 13th 2005

BCAA offers tips to avoid vehicle breakdowns in hot weather

BURNABY, BC, July 18 /CNW/ - It happens every year. As we head into the hottest part of the year drivers will start to lose their cool - the windows
go up, the air conditioner goes on, and for many, engines will overheat. For drivers, a scoop of ice cream usually helps beat the heat. Your car, on the
other hand, will most likely appreciate some more attention, particularly if it's not prepared for extreme temperatures.

With most of B.C. beginning to feel summer's heat, the British Columbia Automobile Association's (BCAA) Road Assist Service is experiencing an
increase in call volumes from motorists who haven't prepared their vehicle for increased temperatures. On the hottest days of summer, BCAA's Road Assist Service experiences call volumes equal to the volumes experienced on the coldest days of winter. BCAA receives approximately 67,000 emergency roadside calls per month during its peak seasons. Most summer calls are related to battery or mechanical problems as a result of extreme temperatures.

"Many drivers don't realize that car maintenance is just as important in the summer as it is in the winter," says Norm Hait, Manager, BCAA Technical
Services. "Preparing for summer's heat is critical, especially considering all the driving we tend to do at this time of year. A simple mechanical inspection and safety check before heading out on vacation can save you from having to be rescued at the side of the road. This is especially important for recreational vehicles which may have been sitting idle for long periods."

To help drivers ensure their cars are properly prepared and equipped for hot weather driving, BCAA offers the following maintenance tips:

• Ensure tires are properly inflated. According to the Rubber Association of Canada, air pressure goes up one to two pounds for every 5 degrees C of temperature change. Also, tire pressures may need
  to be increased to reflect heavier loads.
• Invest in a summer tune-up - top up fluid levels, especially for long trips, and make sure cooling fans and hoses are in good working order.
• Make sure your engine temperature stays within the proper range.
• Maintaining good visibility is as important in the summer months as it is in the wet, snowy, winter months. Check the condition of lights and wiper blades, and make sure you have plenty of washer fluid. Dry weather attracts dust and bugs to your windshield which you'll need to clean regularly. Also check for fresh chips in the windshield that could easily get worse while driving long distances.
• Remove roof racks when not in use. Unnecessary accessories can increase wind resistance, thereby increasing the risk of overheating and reducing the vehicle's fuel economy.
• Do not fill the fuel tank to the brim on especially hot days. As with most liquids, fuel will expand. This could lead to fuel leaking out of the filler neck of the fuel tank or breather.
• If you require assistance, pull off the road and switch on your vehicle's four-way flashers. Get out of your vehicle if it has broken down in an unsafe location. This will avoid a potentially dangerous
  situation. If you have emergency roadside assistance, try and assess your vehicle's operating problem before calling your provider.
• If you're unsure where to have your vehicle checked or serviced, consult BCAA's list of Approved Auto Repair facilities, available online at www.bcaa.com.

BCAA is the province's largest member services association, working on behalf of its 750,000 members to represent their interests and connect them with a team of automotive, travel and insurance professionals dedicated to serving their needs. To learn more about BCAA's products and services, advocacy programs, or about the BCAA Traffic Safety Foundation, visit www.bcaa.com.

For further information: Editors note:

For further information, contact:
Trace Acres,
Director, BCAA Corporate Communications and Government Affairs,
Tel: (604) 268-5029, Cell: (604) 788-3753, Email:trace.acres@bcaa.com;

Jennifer Timm, Coordinator, BCAA Media Relations,
Tel: (604) 268-5342, E-mail: jennifer.timm@bcaa.com

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