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Dressing for Tire Success
Pete Candela is a AAA ASE-certified auto expert with over 30 years’ experience
Pete, I'm thrilled to see AAA come out with a motorcycle membership level; I think it's long overdue. In one of my pieces of literature, it talks about discounted Battery Tender® units. Because I don't ride quite as often as I like, my bike sometimes sits for a month or so. Do you think it is a worthwhile investment for me?
–Jack W.
Jack, I'm thrilled to see the overwhelming acceptance of our new motorcycle product. We think it will be a huge hit with members. You are a perfect candidate for a Battery Tender. This self-monitoring maintenance charger will keep your bike ready to ride when you are—without the fear of overcharging the battery. There are several Battery Tender products that are AAA-branded; at present, the Battery Tender Jr.® is available at our offices at a special discounted price for members. Look at it this way: The device is about half to a third the price of a new battery and can almost double the life of your existing battery. Sounds like a win-win to me.
Pete, I have been maintaining my vehicle myself for many years, including complete interior and exterior detailing. I like to use a tire dressing for the sharp look, but my neighbor is telling me that certain tire dressings can cause premature tire failure. Is this true?
–Stan F.
Stan, there is some truth to what your neighbor is telling you. Because tires are a petroleum-based product, they break down naturally, and UV rays of the sun can accelerate the deterioration. By applying a dressing that is solvent-based, the look may last longer, but it can accelerate the deterioration process even further. This could lead to a premature sidewall failure. I agree that tire dressings give a nice, crisp look, but try to use a water-based dressing instead.
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