WOW! What a winter season in New England? I’m sure we are all very relieved that our April Fools Day storm was not as bad as expected. I think we’re out of the woods now. But I would like to remind you of a few car care tips.

Road salt can damage your Audi’s undercarriage by eating away or corroding the metal. A thorough cleaning at a carwash should do the trick. Make sure the automatic bay has an undercarriage cleaning option. The touchless facilities are always the best for your vehicle’s painted surfaces.

Wiper blades always take a beating during the harsh winter weather wiping away dirt, salt, and sand spray. Make sure the blades are clean and are making proper contact with the glass. Also, it’s also a good idea to check and make sure they haven’t dried out.

A thorough tire inspection is always a must. Potholes and unforeseen road debris can cause damage to sidewalls and wheels. Some damage can influence the integrity of the tire.

It’s very easy to use your Audi for a storage area for all kinds of things especially during the winter months when it’s too cold outside. Take the time to de-clutter the cabin of your vehicle. It’s worth it.

Enjoy the warmer weather and make sure your Audi is ready with these few simple preparation tips. And most of all – be safe!

Okay so you live in New England where the climate is harsh and unpredictable. The weather plays a huge role in the efficient operation of your Audi.

Have you ever noticed an unpleasant odor inside the cabin of your vehicle? Have you ever experienced wet carpets? If you have, your Audi may have a plenum or sunroof drain clogged with debris.

The plenum is part of your vehicle’s heating and ventilation system – a series of ducts, hoses, housings, filters, and motors. The evaporator housing drain must be open and free of debris, the cabin must be sealed with no water ingress into the passenger compartment, plenum and sunroof drains must be kept clear, and the pollen filter must be clean and free of moisture. This vehicle system should be periodically inspected and kept clear of any accumulation of foreign matter such as leaves, pine needles, salt, or sand.

The sunroof also has a system of drain tubes that should be also checked. If there is a blockage in either of these systems, there will be water backup. There is the potential for the water to enter the passenger compartment causing extensive damage including mold, mildew, carpet concerns, control module failure, wiring corrosion, and/or system failures.

Here at Bernardi Audi we include this inspection and cleaning with every major maintenance. However, we strongly recommend to have your Audi’s drains cleaned every year!

AAA recommends that you carry these items in your car during the winter months:

• Ice scraper and brush
• Coffee can furnace
• Boots, gloves, hat
• Basic tools and flashlight with extra batteries
• Tire traction material such as sand or cat litter
• Non-perishable food
• Blanket
• Jumper cables
• First aid kit
• Cell phone
• Flares or reflective triangle
• Shovel

Of course, we realize that you may not be able to keep everything on this list but having a few of the more important items may help you in a winter situation. Bernardi Audi wants you to be safe!

We all love NewEngland. But the winters can be harsh. Your Audi is one of the safest vehicles on the road today with the passenger restraint systems, stability control, and the *Quattro. But we have to be mindful of the driving conditions every time we take to the road. Bernardi Audi wants you to remember to always properly clear snow and ice from your vehicle. This improves visibility. Make sure to remove snow and ice from your hood, roof, trunk lid, turn signals, taillights, headlights, and license plates. Please go slow in the snow. Posted speed limits are set for ideal road and weather conditions. Slow down when visibility and conditions are impaired. Proper braking techniques are also important. Your Audi is equipped with the anti-lock braking system so firm, continuous braking is best. Be ready for anything such as ice formation on bridges, accidents, disabled vehicle, snowplows, emergency vehicles, people, hidden lane markings, and poor visibility. Adjust your speed and increase your following distance. When in a skidding situation ease of the accelerator and carefully steer in the direction you want to your Audi to go. Then straighten the steering when the vehicle begins to track in the desired direction. Please remember snowplows and sand trucks are out there for your safety and the safety of other drivers!

As the temperature drops, so does the cranking power of your battery. At 32 degrees, your battery has 15% less starting power than it does at 80 degrees; at 0 degrees, it has 35% less power, at –20 degrees, it has less than half the cranking power to start.

A faulty battery causes more starting issues than any other factor. It is always best to turn off all unnecessary lights and accessories if the vehicle exhibits a sluggish start. Symptoms of a failing battery may also include dim headlights or charging system warning light on the dash.

When buying a battery always rely on advice from your dealership service personnel who will make certain to provide you with a factory recommended replacement and ensure the proper replacement. Today’s batteries do not require regular fluid checks but it is always wise to inspect the battery case and cables for loose fits, damage, or corrosion (a white or yellowish powder).

The battery connections can always be cleaned with a stiff brush and a solution of baking soda and water. In addition, when having any type of charging system or battery issue you may have to reset some vehicle functionality such as one touch windows, remote key operation, date and time, radio stations, sunroof switch, and/or seat settings to name a few.

And remember Bernardi Audi can provide you with the right battery for your vehicle at a competitive price. Stop by and see us today.

So why invest in winter tires and wheels? According to a recent Department of Transportation study winter tires reduce stopping distance by up to 24% or 2-3 car lengths, provide significant improvement in winter driving performance, and save consumers time and money by reducing the risk of costly accidents and collision repair.

All season tires are not a substitute. All season tires were developed in the early 80’s as a reasonable compromise between summer and winter tires. All season tires were intended to provide traction equal to a true winter tire but do not meet the severe winter traction standard.

Winter tires of today are composed of softer compounds designed to maintain grip at low temperatures. The addition of silica and other additives in the rubber tread decreases wear and provides unmatched traction. Small transverse slits called sipes on the outer edges of the tread and tread blocks provide better grip and handling and optimized design with an increased number of lateral biting edges.

Winter tires are recommended for areas where the temperature is consistently below 45 degrees during the winter months. Kurt Spitzner, an instructor at the Bridgestone Winter Driving School in Colorado says, “The key for staying safe on winter roads isn’t what you drive, but the kind of tires you’re driving on. If you have to drive on snow and ice, winter tires are the safest investment you’ll ever make. You can have the best vehicle possible, but if the tires aren’t up to the job, you’re still not going to be in control.”

Winter tires are a must to maximize traction, handling, and safety in New England’s snow and ice conditions. They help maximize the exceptional ability of Quattro* and help enhance the grip of front wheel drive as well.

Audi winter tire and wheel packages feature top brand name, factory approved winter tires mounted on Audi Genuine alloy wheels. If you need to purchase new winter tires, be sure to take advantage of Bernardi Audi’s Wheel/Tire Package Coupon. Ask your service advisor for available packages today!!

So far, your Audi has been perfect. Why stop now? Audi Genuine parts and accessories help deliver the fit, reliability, and performance you want. They also are covered by your factory warranty, giving you peace of mind to go along with great looks. Does your Audi deserve anything less? Audi Genuine parts and accessories will help enhance the experience of owning your Audi. A visit to the service or parts department for a new addition to your investment is well worth it. A winter tire and wheel package, chrome exhaust tips, tow hitch, ski rack, rear seat cover for your beloved furry friend, whatever you choose can certainly increase the value of your Audi too!! Perhaps there is a particular accessory that will personalize your Audi. Or, how about an office item that will serve as a reminder of the satisfaction and enjoyment that driving your Audi brings. How about a gift for that special Audi owner in your life? There is nothing like a sweatshirt or hat to show that you are a proud Audi owner! All of the products in our parts and accessories department at Bernardi Audi are of the finest quality, just as Audi owners have come to expect. So, why not stop by today? (Be on the lookout for our quarterly mailer with accessory coupons for your use!!)

Fight skyrocketing gas prices by taking control of your vehicle’s unnecessary fuel consumption. As fuel prices continue to rise, there are some easy maintenance tips that can help make the most of your gallon and save money this summer.

The first one is easy. Please be sure that your tires are at the proper inflation. Know the proper pressure for your year, make, and model. Tire pressure should be checked weekly. Always check the tire pressure in the morning when the vehicle is cold. Proper tire inflation can save as much as two miles to the gallon.

Another way to save about 10 percent on your fuel economy is by changing your engine air filter regularly. * While you’re under the hood, inspect those spark plugs too. A lot of fuel can be wasted if just one spark plug is not firing correctly.

A tight gas cap will ensure that your fuel loss through evaporation will be at a minimum. Believe it or, last year 147 million gallons of gas evaporated because owners did not tighten the vehicle’s gas caps properly.*

The best fuel economy results from using the manufacturer recommend octane. Using the lower grade does not save money in the long run.

Do not drive aggressively and observe the speed limits. A steady, consistent pace is always best. Happy motoring!! *National Transportation and Safety Board

Spring is finally here!! This is a great time to take a walk around your vehicle and take note of any imperfections that may have arisen from winter driving. Not only do you want your vehicle to operate to it's maximum performance mechanically but you want it to look it's best too!!

Did you know that a properly maintainted vehicle on the outside could enhance your vehicle's fuel mileage, increase trade-in value, and help avoid penalties when your lease is over?

If you have a few blemishes on your vehicle, a scratch, or a dent, it isn't always necessary to employ the full services of a body shop. A wet sand, buff and wax, touch up, dent removal, interior trim repair, and cosmetic wheel repair are all inexpensive repairs that can be performed in a timely fashion right here at Bernardi Audi. You'll be amazed at the way minor dents and dings are removed while preserving the integrity of the original factory paint or how a wheel can look like new without having to replace it!!

And a professional interior and exterior detail helps protect your vehicle's surfaces from the elements.

Protect your investment today!! Check our service specials section for valuable coupons!!

As we march into spring, we need to pay special attention to the tires on your vehicle. Did you know - that 9% of all tires on the road are bald? A tire can lose as much as 50% of it's inflation pressure and not appear to be flat? 27% of passenger cars and 32% of suv's and minivans have at least one significant under inflated tire? Inflation pressure in a tire goes up (in warm weather) or down (in cold weather) 1 to 2 pounds for every 10 degrees of temperature change?^*

It is important to have the proper inflation pressure in your tires. Under inflation can lead to tire failure and the waste of fuel. Over inflation can cause uneven tire wear in the center of the tread and make the tire more susceptible to road hazard damage and pose vehicle handling issues. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips. Check the tires when they are cool, perform a visual inspection, and always remember to check your spare.

Alignment, tire rotation, and tire balance are important maintenance items to help ensure the most life out of your vehicle's tires. When a vehicle is out of alignment you may experience an abnormal "pulling" which will cause uneven and rapid tire wear. Also, an unbalanced tire may result in irregular wear or vibration. It is always best practice to perform a four wheel alignment and tire balance at least once a year. Spring time is best time!

And remember Bernardi Audi will be happy to check your vehicle tire pressure or perform a visual tire inspection anytime! Bernardi Audi is your #1 tire dealer offering competitive pricing at your convenience!

^*National Safety and Transportation Board

Audi Tips for Safe Driving in poor visibility conditions - These conditions may include snow, rain, fog, direct sunlight, nighttime, twilight, smoke, and hail. First rule is always to drive at a safe speed to allow ample distance for stopping but don't reduce your speed so much that you become a risk to others. Keep your lights in proper working order including keeping your lenses clean because most people on the road tend to follow the taillights of the vehicles in front of them. Headlights are just as important - you want to make sure the oncoming traffic can see you too. Keep your wiper blades clean and streakfree - wipers should be replaced every year. Keep all windows clean inside and out. Make sure there are no obstructions blocking your vision. If you must pull off the road for any reason, move as far to the right as possible turning your headlights off, taking your foot off the brake, and turning the hazard lights on. It's always a good idea to have a pair sunglasses and cell phone with you. Happy motoring!!

Although some of us might like to wish winter away until next year, we probably still have six more weeks of winter ahead. Any extreme temperature or storm can affect the road and driving conditions and pose serious problems, but especially winter. Winter driving means snow, sleet and ice that can lead to hazardous road conditions and unforeseen dangers. To help you make it safely through winter, here are some suggestions to ensure that you and your vehicle are prepared.

To be sure your car is still winter worthy, a good checkup includes:

• Checking the ignition, brakes, wiring, hoses and fan belts.
• Checking the spark plugs.
• Checking the air and fuel filters.
• Checking the battery and charging system.
• Checking the tires for air, sidewall damage and tread depth.
• Checking antifreeze levels.

Your car should have a service maintenance to ensure not only better gas mileage, quicker starts and faster response on pick-up and passing power, but most importantly safety first.

With the recent cold weather you may have noticed your tire pressure system is telling you to check your tire pressure. This is normal. The temperature fluctuation in New England can be as much as 100 degrees F, during the hottest days of summer it can into the upper 90’s, and in the winter the temperature can hover below zero at night. Your tires (and the air inside them) are subjected to some brutal conditions. As a general rule air pressure is reduced 1 psi for every 10 degrees F, if taken to the extreme, that’s a 10-psi reduction. That will have major effects on the performance of your car. Correct tire pressure is crucial for traction, comfort, fuel economy, and proper tread wear. Thankfully the newer Audis all have a tire pressure monitoring system; if the indicator light comes on, check the tire pressures. It will save you money, and keep your car performing at its highest levels.

Many things affect your gas mileage. Did you know that there is “summer” gasoline and “winter” gasoline? In the winter time gasoline by itself is less volatile, or less likely to vaporize. In an internal combustion engine, a mixture of air and fuel vapor is burned. If the gasoline were to stay in a liquid state, it would not burn. Winter formulated gasoline has additives that increase the volatility, but decrease the BTU’s (energy content). This means winter blend gas burns slightly less efficient. The main factor in the reduction of fuel efficiency is the cold. It sounds simple, but all mechanical things require lubrication. When oil and grease are cold there is much more resistance to move, your engine requires more power to get up to speed. Even your tires have increased rolling resistance in the cold. All these small factors can add up to significant reductions in your fuel economy.

The only thing that will get you increased traction is your tires. Quattro is the most advanced, most refined, and best all-wheel drive system. It’s Quattro that makes you go! Your tires are what actually provide grip. It’s your tires that stop you! All-season tires are a compromise; they have acceptable levels of traction for all conditions. The same tread design and tire compounds that provide good grip in the summer are less effective in the winter. In order to take full advantage of Quattro and your ESP (stability management) you'll need tires suited for the weather. Winter tires are not just "snow tires" they have different compounds engineered into them that increase traction in sub-freezing temperatures. Your Audi will perform better, and be more enjoyable to drive in all conditions. A winter tire package allows the use of two sets of dedicated, optimized tires, providing the best possible performance.