Economic factors made 2023 a record year for motorists, but not in ways that helped most families’ household budgets.

The average price of a new car peaked at nearly $50,000 while the average age of cars on the road surpassed 12 years, a record, according to S&P.

Rising costs for new cars and an aging fleet of vehicles on the road go hand-in-hand and, for most drivers, this means staying on top of vehicle maintenance is crucial. Yet even maintenance has become more difficult as the cost of parts and labor increase, leaving drivers with a sometimes daunting list of automotive DIY projects or parts to source when their mechanic is out of stock.

Common Fears About Automotive DIY
For people new to car maintenance and repair, getting started can feel overwhelming. Because many families count on their cars to get where they need to go, it seems like a lot could go wrong with an average of 30,000 parts under the hood of a gasoline-powered vehicle.

Consider these common situations that could make someone hesitant to take on a DIY project:

• Finding the best place to get parts to fit your needs
• Being unsure if a part is high enough quality to last and keep your car on the road
• Not knowing if the part you ordered will fit your car

For most, these fears boil down to being unsure if a part is right for the job, or if they’re skilled enough to install it.

Tips to Get the Repair Done Right
Now, more automotive parts and accessories retailers offer tools to help guide DIYers toward the right inventory for their needs. From brick-and-mortar shops to online marketplaces like eBay Motors, they can enjoy access to more resources to help find the exact part and good value:

• Consider shopping online: While physical retailers may have parts that work in a pinch, they may not be the best part for a project or offer the best value. Searching online retailers can provide access to millions of parts and accessories – including hard-to-find and discontinued items – from trusted car manufacturers and reliable aftermarket part brands.
• Look for fitment guarantees: There are few things more frustrating than being halfway through a repair only to learn a part doesn’t fit. To help ensure you’re buying with confidence, the eBay Guaranteed Fit program allows users to add a vehicle to “My Garage” then quickly and easily search for parts. If there’s a green “Fits” check, you can rest assured it’s guaranteed to fit or your money back.
• Take advantage of services and educational tools: Some online parts destinations offer features on-site or via app that connect you with licensed mechanics live if you’re unsure of how to approach a repair or maintenance, from something simple like a filter change to help with more advanced jobs, like replacing spark plugs. When it comes to sourcing and installing parts like tires, look for marketplaces that offer a wide selection of top brands and services that ship your order straight to your local shop for convenient installation.

With the right resources, car projects can feel more manageable. To get started, visit eBayMotors.com to find how-to resources, parts and accessories to tackle some DIY projects, including filters, wiper blades, spark plugs, batteries, light bulbs and more.

Whether it’s gas prices, airline costs, limited lodging options due to high demand or a multitude of other factors, it can get expensive to travel. Depending on the destination and length of your stay, planning a vacation can take months of saving and research on everything from activities to accommodations and more.

However, these tips can help you keep travel costs down and get the most enjoyment out of your trip.

Stick to a Budget
After accounting for your transportation and lodging – the largest portions of most trips – set spending limits for the rest of the trip, including food, activities and souvenirs. If you have a set budget, you’ll be more willing to pass up spontaneous temptations, knowing you’ll otherwise have to cut back elsewhere. Also remember to track your spending during the trip to avoid going over your intended budget.

Take Advantage of Rewards Programs
Many retailers offer special perks, like discounts or exclusive coupons, to loyal customers to help encourage repeat visits. Taking advantage of these rewards programs, which are typically free to join, can be a simple way to save money on purchases you’ll likely make anyhow. For example, the global convenience store chain Circle K launched the free Inner Circle membership program, which rewards customers who download the app and sign up with instant access to save 25 cents per gallon on their first fill ups and five free beverages. In addition, members can save up to 5 cents per gallon on fuel and receive offers like buy five, get one free on select snacks, fresh food and beverages. There are also upgrades for customers who reach certain spending thresholds and opportunities to stack membership offers with Easy Pay to save an additional 10 cents per gallon on every fill-up, allowing the savings to build up while on the road.

Consider Alternative Lodging
While hotels are a tried-and-true option for vacation lodging, there are other options to consider, especially when planning an extended stay or traveling with a large group, that can help you save money. Booking a rental home or apartment unit may be a more cost-effective option despite the requirement of a deposit, which is typically returned at check out, assuming there is no damage and all cleaning requirements are completed. If the stay is shorter, you could also consider boarding at a hostel.

Limit Dining Out
While one of the biggest perks of traveling is often trying cuisines and restaurants you’re unable to at home, opting to make some meals yourself can provide considerable savings. If exploring the culinary scene for dinner is a must, consider a simple lunch like making sandwiches in your rental kitchen or hotel room and packing grab-and-go snacks to hold you over while exploring. If your hotel offers a complimentary breakfast, this is another easy way to save on food costs since it’s already rolled into your lodging.

Look for Free Activities
Even in more expensive destinations, there are typically no-to-low-cost activities. Some museums and zoos are free of charge to enter, but concessions and amenities can cost extra. Many major cities also offer free walking tours. Checking with your concierge if staying in a hotel may also lead to free or reduced cost passes to attractions.

Visit CircleK.com or download the app for more cost-saving ideas and to find the nearest participating location.

Between inventory issues and climbing interest rates, buying a vehicle can be quite an ordeal, making it an investment worth protecting.

Today’s vehicles require less maintenance than ever before. You can go longer between oil changes and many tires are rated for longer travel. However, keeping up with regular maintenance remains part of your vehicle’s upkeep.

Whether you’ve purchased a new vehicle or you’re aiming to keep a car or truck you already own in good working condition, these tips can help you maintain its peak performance and appearance.

Car Wash: At least once a month, make a point of washing your car to remove built up grime. Not only is the dirt unsightly, but the mess can also damage your paint job and even the frame. This is especially true during the winter months when road salt splatters your vehicle’s undercarriage. Once the temperatures climb back above freezing, be sure to wash away the salt.

Covered Parking: When possible, use a garage or other form of covered parking. You’ll protect your paint job from harsh UV rays, and you’ll also limit exposure to bird droppings and other potentially corrosive or damaging elements in the environment, like dust and pollen.

Windshield Wipers: Visibility is one of the most important aspects of safety when you’re driving, and windshield wiper blades play an essential role. Squeaking, streaking and failing to clear precipitation are all signs your blades need to be replaced. Check wipers regularly and plan on replacing them at least every 6-12 months.

Battery: You may not think much about your battery as long as your engine is turning over and your vehicle is running smoothly. However, even a car in good condition can have battery damage. At least once a year, check for signs of battery acid. If you detect the white powdery substance around your battery terminals, disconnect the cables (negative first) and apply a mixture of baking soda and water with a wire brush. Rinse with water and dry before replacing the cables.

Air Filter: The air filter doesn’t just affect the air quality in the cabin of your vehicle. A dirty filter can also cause engine strain because it hinders proper air flow. Over time, you may even notice a decline in gas mileage and acceleration performance. Many factors affect how often you need to replace your filter, but a quick visual inspection should give you a clear idea. Your owner’s manual will help you determine how to access the filter; it’s easier than people often assume.

Find more practical tips for auto care at eLivingtoday.com.

While snow may be one of the highlights of winter, wet roads and ice can make for dangerous driving conditions. Cold temperatures and slick roads can wreak havoc on vehicles, making even a short commute across town a hazardous trip.

Before you step into the driver’s seat this winter, pay special attention to the safety of your vehicle and consider these tips from the experts at your local Discount Tire to ensure you’re ready to hit the road.

Install Winter Tires
Built for the cold and designed for better traction in winter conditions when temperatures drop below 45 F, winter tires can provide better traction on slippery, wet and icy roads, which can lead to striking curbs and other objects that scratch, dent and scuff wheels. Changing wheels and tires each season can ensure you have the best traction possible and protect summer or all-season wheels from the harsh effects of snow, ice and road-clearing chemicals like salt.

Keep Traction on Winter Roads
Tread depth determines a vehicle’s safe stopping distance, which is vital during winter weather when all-season tires can take an average of 110 feet to stop at 30 miles per hour compared to 81 feet in the same conditions for winter tires. You can check the tread depth by sticking a penny upside-down in a tread groove – it’s time to replace your tires if President Lincoln’s head is visible.

Check Tire Pressure
Tires lose air due to impacts and pressure of bumps and turns. Colder temperatures can also impact air pressure. For every 10-degree drop in ambient temperature, tires lose one pound of pressure (PSI). At least once a month, especially before long trips, check the pressure in your tires or stop by a Discount Tire location. Low pressure can lead to poor handling and gas mileage, excessive wear and overloading. Keep a tire pressure gauge in your vehicle to ensure each tire is filled to the manufacturer’s recommended inflation level and add air as necessary.

Update Your Wiper Blades
In cold and icy winter weather, wiper blades can stiffen and become damaged. While your wiper blades’ lifespan will vary based on where you live and the weather you deal with, experts recommend replacing them every six months. If your wiper blades squeak or leave streaks on your windshield, it’s time to replace them.

Know the Age of Your Tires
The older a tire, the higher its risk for failure. As tires age, the rubber becomes harder and brittle, losing elasticity and strength. Check the DOT number stamped on your tires’ sidewalls to see if it’s time for replacement. If you’re not sure what tires are right for your vehicle, a tool like Treadwell allows you to easily input vehicle information and driving habits to receive a personalized recommendation.

Rotate Tires Often
Regular tire rotations help ensure proper traction. Tires should be rotated every 6,000 miles, or earlier if uneven wear develops. One easy way to remember: Have your tires rotated every other time you have your oil changed.

Check for a Spare Tire
Many newer vehicles have replaced spare tires with tire inflation kits that include puncture-coating sealants and air compressors or run-flat tires. Check to see what your vehicle has and consider adding a roadside assistance plan in case you experience any issues during inclement weather.

To locate a store near you, or search for winter tires specific to your vehicle and driving habits, visit discounttire.com, where you can save up to 30% on wait times in-store, or use the mobile app.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

The holiday season can be stressful enough before adding travel to the mix. Coordinating ground or air travel and planning accommodations, even if you’re simply staying with loved ones, is often just the beginning and health and safety concerns can fall by the wayside.

For example, the highest incidence rate of cardiac mortality for the entire year occurs between Christmas and New Year’s Day, according to the American Heart Association, and more than 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur each year in the United States.

If you’re among the 62% of Americans who plan to travel this holiday season, according to research conducted by IPX1031, consider these tips to protect your health and safety.

Plan Ahead
Proper planning can help ensure you’re prepared to handle any unexpected challenges or delays when you depart. Check the weather before heading out – including at your destination – and travel around any anticipated storms. Leave early to account for potentially heavy traffic and plot your path in advance to ensure you’re aware of any road closures or construction, which can allow you to find alternate routes, if necessary, rather than trying to adjust on the fly.

Ensure Your Family is Up to Date on Vaccines
Routine vaccinations can help protect you from infectious diseases that can be easily spread when around a large group of people. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the seasonal flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older. Other vaccines, such as the COVID-19 vaccine or booster and measles vaccine, can help protect not only your health, but your loved ones as well.

Learn CPR
Only about 40% of people who suffer from cardiac arrest receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR, from a bystander, according to the American Heart Association. However, immediate CPR can double or triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival.

Just in time for the holiday season, revamped Hands-Only CPR training kiosks, which provide an overview of Hands-Only CPR followed by a practice session and a 30-second test, are available in airports, hospitals and other locations around the country. With the help of a practice mannequin, the kiosks give feedback about the depth and rate of compression, as well as proper hand placement – factors that influence the effectiveness of CPR – and teaches the two simple steps:

1. Call 911
2. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest of the individual experiencing cardiac arrest until help arrives

Many of the Hands-Only CPR kiosks, as well as the Hands-Only CPR campaign, are supported by Elevance Health Foundation. To find a kiosk along your travel path, visit heart.org/handsonlycpr.

Prepare Your Vehicle
Car trouble is a common culprit during holiday travel. To help avoid potential issues, have your vehicle checked before embarking on an extended trip. Check tires, the battery, headlights, windshield wipers and any other parts that may be adversely impacted by winter weather. Also ensure your vehicle is equipped with essentials like a spare tire or inflation kit, jack, jumper cables, blankets, a first aid kit and a flashlight in case of an emergency.

Pack a Health Kit
If you take prescription or over-the-counter medications, it may be difficult to quickly get a refill at your destination, so be sure to pack enough to last your entire trip, plus extras in case you encounter any travel delays. It may also be helpful to pack other essentials including hand sanitizer, a first-aid kit, cold medicine, aspirin and your health insurance card in case of any unexpected injuries or illnesses while on the road.

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock

4 tire tips for cold weather

Even the most experienced drivers can encounter challenges when driving on slick roads caused by ice and snow or dealing with the impact of colder temperatures during the winter months. In fact, inclement weather and sloppy road conditions are a factor in nearly half a million crashes each winter, according to research by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

Being safe on the road begins before you even slide into the driver’s seat. When the temperature drops, it’s important to pay special attention to your vehicle’s well-being, including checking the battery, wipers, coolant and other systems. One of your vehicle’s most important safety and performance features that should not be overlooked as winter weather sets in is its tires, which are the only direct link to the road below.

Consider these tips from the experts at Discount Tire to help ensure your tires are ready for winter.

Maintain Proper Pressure
The air inside your tires supports the weight of your car, and as the outdoor temperature drops, so does your tire pressure. For every 10-degree drop in ambient temperature, your tires can lose about 1 pound per square inch (PSI) of pressure. Keep a tire pressure gauge in your vehicle and check your tires at least once a month to ensure they are filled to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended inflation level, which can be found in the instruction manual or inside the driver’s door. Also, if your vehicle has a spare tire, remember to check its inflation level as well, as it may be different.

Many cars may have been sitting idle due to the pandemic. Activities being cancelled, working from home and more frequent dining in have kept more cars off the roads than usual. However, just because you haven’t been driving doesn’t mean your tires have stayed the same. Tires can still lose air pressure, around 1-2 PSI per month, even if they aren’t being used. Some tires may also vibrate after sitting for a while. These concerns can be solved with a quick tire checkup.

Check Your Tread
Tread depth helps determine a vehicle’s safe stopping distance. You can check your tires’ tread depth by sticking a penny upside-down in one of the grooves. If President Lincoln’s entire head is visible, it’s time to replace your tires to ensure you’re able to stop in time in conditions that typically accompany the winter months.

Invest in Winter Tires
In extreme cold, the tread rubber of all-season or summer tires can stiffen and lose the ability to provide sufficient traction. Winter tires are made from softer rubber to maintain pliability, and the tread design features thousands of extra traction edges for added grip. If you regularly drive in temperatures of 45 F – the same temperature at which you can begin to see your breath – or below, replacing all four tires with winter tires can help provide more control and deliver as much as a 25-50% increase in traction over all-season tires, which could be the margin you need to stop in time or turn to avoid trouble.

Rotate Often
To increase tread life, rotate your tires every 6,000 miles, or earlier if irregular or uneven wear develops. One easy way to remember is to have your tires rotated every other time you have your oil changed.

As you prepare your vehicle for safe winter travel, visit DiscountTire.com for more tips, a personalized tire guide and to find a location near you.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (Car in snow)

For many families, cars are huge, long-term investments second only to homes. Many are looking for ways to keep their cars on the road longer and make them safer to continue to serve their needs for years to come.

No matter what or where you drive, you can keep your current vehicle looking and performing its best – and even update it to make it safer – with these tips inspired by eBay Motors’ Parts of America tour, a cross-country tour exploring unique car cultures across America.

Choose the Right Tires
If it’s time to trade your tires in, take the time to learn what options are available for your vehicle. For those in fair weather states, summer performance tires offer the best possible fuel efficiency all year round. Families living in milder states with occasional snow may consider all-season tires that trade efficiency for safety on a variety of surfaces. Finally, when it comes to driving in a winter wonderland, there is no substitute for specialized rubber and tread patterns – purchase a dedicated set of snow tires to ensure you’re safe all winter long. No matter your situation, a new set of tires can maximize safety and extend the life of your car.

New Look, New Ride
One way to breathe new life into your ride is to take it to the next level aesthetically. With enthusiast communities growing around nearly every make and model of vehicle, it’s easy to find parts to make your vision a reality. One of the most eye-catching additions is a new set of wheels, and there are thousands of brands, styles and sizes to choose from for every car. The addition of front, side and rear aerodynamics kits, such as front splitters or rear spoilers, can give any ride that athletic look. Upgrading stock headlight and taillight units – many fitted with high-visibility LEDs – has never been easier.

Upgrade Your Tech
Safety and creature comforts alike can add to your enjoyment of your vehicle, even if you’ve been driving it for several years. Many cars can be updated with the latest and greatest features available in new rides, including high-tech infotainment equipped with digital assistants, front and rear cameras, parking sensors, blind spot warning and even collision avoidance systems. As families look to extend their cars’ lifespans, these technology upgrades can make driving comfortable and safer.

Power and Performance
While looks and tech can bring new experiences to your car, no change has quite the same impact as improving its performance. Options abound for those looking to improve the power and handling of their ride, such as replacing the exhaust system, lowering springs, adding a coilover kit or conducting a full suspension replacement.

Find Purpose-Built Parts
Whether you’re an amateur DIY-er looking to maintain and make small upgrades to your vehicle or an expert looking to make bigger modifications, finding parts and accessories that fit your vehicle is crucial. From hard-to-find performance modifications to made-to-fit cosmetic accessories, eBay Motors offers parts and accessories for nearly any vehicle, skillset and project. The app offers an entire catalog of inventory with 122 million live parts listings at any given time, giving auto enthusiasts the ability to purchase from an expansive inventory from the convenience of a smartphone. What’s more, features like Buy It Now, My Garage and Fitment Finder enable users to easily search parts and accessories, verify the items fit their vehicle and make immediate purchases for what they need.

Skip the Wait
The global supply chain continues to recover from disruptions that have stretched back several years, and many customers are feeling the strain when it comes time to upgrade, maintain or repair their vehicles. Some shops around the country are quoting waiting times of several months just to have the right part delivered for service. However, families can find relief and get their car back on the road quicker by looking online to source their much-needed parts. In fact, many technicians work with customers to have parts delivered directly to their shop from online sources to expedite and simplify the process.

Auto enthusiasts can find more helpful tips, tricks and resources at ebaymotors.com.

There’s a chill in the air, leaves are changing colors and falling from trees and there are more porches decorated for the seasons ahead than the eyes can see. The changing weather also means shorter days and longer nights where visibility becomes critical from sunset to sunrise. Now is the ideal time to ensure your vehicle is ready for the transition of seasons by checking key safety and visibility items.

While it can be picturesque, seasonal weather is often unpredictable, so it’s important to ensure your vehicle is ready for all conditions. Make sure your headlights, wiper blades and windshield washer fluid are ready for the challenges of driving during the fall and winter months ahead.

Windshield Wiper Blades
Start with checking the windshield wiper blades that work overtime in inclement weather. Flat blade windshield wipers are designed to hug the curve of your windshield and provide a clean wipe. Be sure to invest in a pair of new wiper blades to help give you a clear line of sight behind the wheel as the weather changes.

“To help keep drivers’ windshields clean regardless of the season, PEAK offers a full line of wiper blades that help keep drivers’ windshields clean regardless of the season,” automotive DIY expert Emily Reeves said. “It’s important to make sure you check your car manual to help determine which blade size is right for your vehicle and take into consideration the environmental elements you’ll face heading into fall and winter.”

Windshield Washer Fluid
Wiper blades alone won’t keep leaves, dirt and grime off of your windshield. Next, it’s crucial to check your windshield washer fluid to make sure its fresh and caters to seasonal needs. Be sure to do some research to determine what is best for both your vehicle and local climate, whether that be all-season, bug cleaning or de-icing. Seasonally appropriate windshield washer fluid can help ensure you’re prepared to fight everything from rain, bugs, tree sap and bird droppings from interfering with your visibility and allow you to drive more safely.

Headlights
A clean, clear windshield is nothing if you aren’t able to see more than 5 feet in front of you. Shorter days mean less sunlight and decreased visibility while on the road. Now is also a perfect time to check your headlights to ensure they aren’t dimming, which will reduce visibility, particularly at nighttime. There are options available to suit both drivers who prefer a more golden hue as well as a white halogen glow.

“There is nothing worse than a dim headlight when you’re driving at night, especially as our days get shorter,” Reeves said. “Whether you’re dealing with morning fog or chilly temperature drops, help maintain your visibility with PEAK Power Vision Headlamps, which include options that range from a golden hue to a white halogen glow.”

These tips can help ensure your vehicle is ready to tackle fall and winter weather conditions. For additional insights to maximize your car’s potential, and key products to use as you prepare for the road ahead, visit owi.com/retail/brands/peak-auto.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

The windshield wipers and lights on your car provide major elements of safety as you drive.

Lights are normal wear items that require periodic inspection and replacement. The lighting system provides nighttime visibility; signals and alerts other drivers; and supplies light for viewing instruments and the vehicle’s interior.

In addition to replacing dimming, rapidly blinking and non-functioning lights, the following tips from the experts at the Car Care Council can help keep you safe:

• Keep headlights, tail lights and signal lights clean. External dirt and debris can dim operational lights from being seen by others.
• Make sure that your headlights are properly aimed. Misaimed headlights blind other drivers and reduce your ability to see the road.
• Don’t overdrive your headlights; you should be able to stop inside the illuminated area, otherwise you are creating a blind crash area in front of your vehicle.
• If there is any doubt on whether or not your headlights should be on, turn them on. Lights not only help you see better in early twilight, they also make it easier for other drivers to see you.

For more tips and general maintenance information, visit www.carcare.org.

What you should know to get ready for winter

Conducting routine maintenance on your vehicle is necessary to maintain optimal performance and prevent costly repairs. As colder weather approaches, and with it the potential for treacherous road conditions, giving certain areas of your car special attention can also protect your safety.

The following tips will help you learn how to care for the systems and features most likely to affect your safety as winter approaches. Learn about the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair, and order a free copy of the council’s Car Care Guide, at www.carcare.org.

Brakes
The brake system is a car’s most important safety system. A faulty brake system may impede your ability to safely slow your vehicle in inclement driving conditions or avoid an accident. Brakes sustain normal wear and eventually need to be replaced for both performance and safety reasons. Ignoring routine maintenance and letting brake pads wear too thin can lead to costly rotor and drum replacement, in addition to compromising your ability to execute a sudden stop safely.

• Have your complete brake system thoroughly inspected annually and replace equipment as needed.
• If your car is pulling to the left or right, or if you hear odd noises when you apply the brakes, you should have your brakes inspected. Other warning signs include an illuminated brake warning light, brake grabbing, low pedal feel, vibration, hard pedal feel and squealing.
• Don’t overlook the parking brake, which also may require adjustment or replacement parts.

Wheels and Tires
When roads become wet or icy, the right wheels and tires can help ensure you have the traction you need to maintain control. Maintaining tire balance and wheel alignment reduces tire wear and improves handling and fuel economy. Tire replacement is necessary if the tread depth is below the minimum legal requirement, or if the sidewalls are severely cracked or punctured. In addition, normal wear and road conditions can take their toll on your car’s steering and suspension system and disrupt the alignment, which in turn reduces optimum handling.

• Use the “penny test” to check your tread; if you see Lincoln’s head above the tread, you are ready for new tires.
• Have your car’s alignment checked at least annually or at the first sign of improper handling or uneven wear.
• Check inflation pressure at least once a month (including the spare) and once per week in the winter.
• Rotate and balance tires every 6,000 miles to avoid accelerated wear on shock absorbers and struts.

Battery
Your battery should be securely mounted, with connections clean, tight and corrosion-free. If the battery is three years old or more, it should be tested and replaced if necessary.

Headlights
Headlights play a major role in safe driving; the chances for accidents increase if you can’t see or be seen. The lighting system provides nighttime visibility, signals and alerts other drivers, and supplies light for viewing instruments and the vehicle’s interior.

• If there is any doubt about whether or not your headlights should be on, turn them on.
• Keep headlights, tail lights and signal lights clean. External dirt and debris can dim operational lights, making it difficult to be seen by others.
• Make sure your headlights are properly aimed. If they aren’t, headlights blind other drivers and reduce your ability to see the road.
• Don’t overdrive your headlights. You should be able to stop inside the illuminated area; otherwise you are creating a blind crash area in front of your vehicle.
• Replace dimming, rapidly blinking or non-functioning lights immediately, but check first to ensure a loose or faulty fuse isn’t the source of the problem.

Windshield Wipers
The wiper system keeps excessive water, snow and dirt from building up on the windshield, maintaining clear visibility. Many factors can accelerate the replacement of wipers, including operating conditions, frequency of use, material and type of wipers and weather.

• In general, replace blades every six months or when cracked, cut, torn, streaking or chattering.
• Be aware that some vehicles have two washer fluid reservoirs. Check levels monthly and use washer fluid only; do not use water.

Maintenance Checklist
Whether you do it yourself or take your car to a professional service technician, the Car Care Council recommends these basic maintenance procedures to keep your vehicle operating at its best:

1. Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission, as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant.
2. Check the hoses and belts for signs of damage or wear.
3. Check the battery and replace if necessary.
4. Check the brake system annually and have the brake linings, rotors and drums inspected at each oil change.
5. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, damage and broken supports or hangers if there is an unusual noise.
6. Check the heating, ventilating and air conditioning system, as proper heating and cooling performance is critical for interior comfort and for safety reasons such as defrosting.
7. Inspect the steering and suspension system annually, including shock absorbers, struts and chassis parts such as ball joints, tie rod ends and other related components.
8. Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.
9. Check the wipers and lighting, including both interior and exterior lighting, and replace worn wiper blades so you can see clearly when driving during precipitation.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images