Preserve the life of your vehicle and enhance overall safety with routine brake inspections on your vehicle.

The brake care experts at the Car Care Council recommend motorists watch for these signs:

1. Noise: Screeching, grinding or clicking noises when applying the brakes.
2. Pulling: Vehicle pulls to one side while braking.
3. Low pedal: Brake pedal nearly touches the floor before engaging.
4. Hard pedal: Must apply extreme pressure to the pedal before brakes engage.
5. Grabbing: Brakes grab at the slightest touch to the pedal.
6. Vibration: Brake pedal vibrates or pulses, even under normal braking conditions.
7. Light: Brake light is illuminated on your vehicle’s dashboard.

Brakes are a normal wear item on any vehicle and they will eventually need to be replaced. Factors that can affect brake wear include driving habits, operating conditions, vehicle type and the quality of the brake lining material. Understanding these warning signs can help you and your family stay safe on the road.

For more ways to enhance the safety of your vehicle, visit www.carcare.org.

Basic car care is the key to a long-lasting vehicle, improving its safety and dependability, says the Car Care Council. Following a routine maintenance program also makes financial sense since neglected vehicle care almost always means much higher costs down the line in the form of more extensive repairs or lost resale value.

The Car Care Council recommends 10 basic maintenance procedures to keep your car operating at its best for the long haul:

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 to make sure they are not cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or showing signs of excessive wear.
3. Check the battery and replace, if necessary. Make sure the connection is clean, tight and corrosion-free.
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. Exhaust leaks can be dangerous and must be corrected without delay.
6. Check engine performance to deliver the best balance of power and fuel economy and produce the lowest level of emissions.
7. Check the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system as proper heating and cooling performance is critical for interior comfort and for safety reasons such as defrosting.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. Check the wipers and lighting so that you can see and be seen. Check that all interior and exterior lighting is working properly and replace worn wiper blades so you can see clearly when driving during precipitation.

For more information on vehicle maintenance, service interval schedules, questions to ask a technician and tips to drive smart and save money, the Car Care Council’s 80-page Car Care Guide can be ordered free-of-charge at www.carcare.org.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Work, school, errands and the other demands of family life put your vehicle at the center of it all, so when something goes wrong, you may find yourself overwhelmed. Finding a repair shop you can rely on can ease your frustration and get you back on the road.

“For most people, a vehicle is their second biggest investment next to a home,” said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council. “It makes sense to take the time to select an auto repair facility that will take the best care of that investment.”

Asking a few simple questions can help you identify an auto repair shop to properly care for one of your most valuable assets. The Car Care Council recommends exploring these topics before choosing where to have your car repaired:

• Does the business employ certified technicians? Credentials and affiliations are indicators of professionalism and the management’s commitment to training and education.
• Is the shop and customer waiting area clean and organized? Cleanliness and organization are signs of a well-run business.
• Are customers greeted and treated in a friendly and respectful manner? A simple phone call to the shop to inquire about their services can give you a glimpse into how they treat customers.
• Does the business provide a written estimate? The business should complete a written estimate and request your signature prior to starting any repairs on your car.
• What type of warranty does the shop offer? Most auto repair businesses offer a warranty on parts and labor, and the warranty is usually in writing or posted in the waiting area.
• Does the business have a list of satisfied customers or references that it is willing to give you? Satisfied customers and recommendations from family, friends and neighbors are helpful in finding a good shop.
• Is there a website you can visit? Many auto repair facilities have company websites that are worth checking out as they often include testimonials and additional information about the business.

For a video with more advice for selecting your auto repair shop, as well as information on the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair, visit www.carcare.org.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Avoid breakdowns with a pre-trip vehicle check

If your upcoming travel plans include a road trip, the last thing you want is unexpected car trouble to leave you stranded at the side of the road. A pre-trip vehicle check is the best way to ensure that your car is ready to get you to your destination.

“Taking steps to have auto repairs performed before long distance driving will not only give you peace of mind, but will also help avoid the inconvenience and potential safety hazards of breaking down when you’re miles from home,” said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council.

Protect your vehicle and your own safety by following these recommendations from the Car Care Council and complete a thorough pre-trip checklist before hitting the road:

• Check the brake system and make sure the battery connection is clean, tight and corrosion-free.
• Check filters and fluids, including engine oil, power steering and brake and transmission, as well as windshield washer solvent and coolant. Dirty air filters can waste gas and cause the engine to lose power.
• Check hoses and belts that can become cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or show signs of excessive wear. These are critical to the proper functioning of the electrical system, air conditioning, power steering and the cooling system.
• Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Underinflated tires reduce a vehicle’s fuel economy and uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.
• Check that the gas cap is not damaged, loose or missing to prevent gas from spilling or evaporating.

You can also make sure your vehicle is road-trip-ready by taking better care of your vehicle throughout the year using tools such as the Car Care Council’s free personalized schedule and email reminder service, which can help you drive smart, save money and make informed decisions about your car.

To access this convenient service, or to order a copy of the council’s Car Care Guide, which is available electronically or as a booklet you can store in your glove box, visit www.carcare.org.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

While many new drivers anticipate receiving their driver’s license, there are many responsibilities that come along with being a car owner, including basic maintenance.

“Most young people can’t wait to drive, but their car care education should begin well before their parents hand over the keys,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “Understanding the basics of car care before taking the wheel will help keep new drivers safer on the road.”

The experts with the Car Care Council offer these 10 car care inspection procedures so young drivers can better understand the importance of maintenance, enhancing the longevity and performance of their vehicle.

1. Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission as well as windshield washer solvent and coolant.
2. Check the hoses and belts to make sure they are not cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or showing signs of excessive wear.
3. Check the battery and replace if necessary. Make sure the connection is clean, tight and corrosion-free.
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. Exhaust leaks can be dangerous and must be corrected without delay.
6. Schedule required maintenance to help the engine deliver the best balance of power and fuel economy and produce the lowest level of emissions.
7. Check the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system as proper heating and cooling performance is critical for interior comfort and for safety reasons such as defrosting.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. Check the wipers and lighting so that you can see and be seen. Check that all interior and exterior lighting is working properly and replace worn wiper blades so you can see clearly when driving during precipitation.

For more resources, visit www.carcare.org.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Do it yourself to enhance vehicle performance

Like most families, you are likely looking for ways to stretch your budget. One of the best ways to do so is by investing in the maintenance and care of your vehicle. For those looking to increase the life of their car, the solution can be found at the local auto parts store.

While the technology used in today’s vehicles may make repairs seem impossible, even the smallest fixes can greatly enhance performance, plus ease the strain on your pocketbook.

Others fear that doing work on their car will void the warranty, but this is not the case. In fact, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act is a federal law that protects it regardless of who does the auto repair. Fixing your car is a rewarding experience, giving you a sense of pride for not only learning something new, but accomplishing the task all on your own.

Start small
When it comes to vehicle maintenance, learn the simple jobs first. These tasks can include checking fluids, replacing air filters and changing the oil. The experiences learned starting small will give you the tools and know-how to tackle larger jobs.

The experts at the Car Care Council offer these tips for making the most of your budget and your trip to the local auto parts retailer.

• Enhance appearance
  Because household cleaners can harm the interior and exterior surfaces of your car, it’s important to invest in the proper tools to give it a showroom shine.
• Simple repairs made easy
  Whether you need to replace your windshield wipers or a light bulb, your local parts store has what you need to fix it yourself. Many also include catalogs or digital kiosks to assist you in finding the right part for your car. If you should have any questions, an auto parts counter person can assist.
• Stock up on DIY products
  The parts store makes it easy to keep important maintenance items in stock at home. For example, transmission fluid, oil, brake fluid and coolant are all valuable items to have on hand.
• Tackle bigger repairs
  Once you’re ready to fix more involved repairs on your own, there are a few things you should know. The auto parts counter staff will ask for information, such as the make, model and year of your vehicle, as well as what kind of engine it uses. All of this information can be found in your owner’s manual. From here, your parts person will help you get what you need to do the job right.
• Personalize your ride
  From floor mats to fuzzy dice, your local parts store also has everything you need to personalize your automobile and make a statement.

Being familiar with your local auto parts store is the first step in enhancing the life of your car, plus it saves you a little cash along the way. For more tips to keep your car performing its best, visit www.carcare.org.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images / Article: Family Features

You may take steps to reduce your environmental impact through the products you purchase and simple household actions, such as recycling – but what about the car you drive?

“Basic vehicle maintenance, as well as a few helpful driving tricks, can go a long way toward protecting the environment, extending vehicle life and improving fuel economy,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council.

The experts with the Car Care Council suggest these easy ways to turn your car into a mean, green driving machine – for your wallet and the environment.

• Hang onto your current vehicle and limit the number of new cars you buy over the course of a lifetime. Extending vehicle life is as simple as taking care of your vehicle properly. You’ll gain years of reliable service without monthly car payments and higher insurance rates.
• Follow a vehicle service schedule including fuel-saving steps like keeping tires properly inflated, replacing air filters regularly and using the correct motor oil. Routine maintenance helps reduce emissions and fuel consumption, saving money at the pump.
• Recycle or properly dispose motor oil, tires, batteries, fluids and other vehicle components to help protect the planet when performing vehicle maintenance or repairs.
• Drive green and recognize that how you drive has a lot to do with fuel economy. Avoid sudden starts and stops and go the speed limit. Jerky and aggressive driving decreases your miles per gallon (MPG) and increases wear and tear on your vehicle. Minimize unnecessary miles by combining errands in one trip.
• Perform needed maintenance, providing general maintenance and having clean air filters will help your car pollute less and burn less gas. With a proper tune-up, you can save four percent on the cost of gas and up to 40 percent by replacing a faulty oxygen sensor. Simply changing the car’s air filter can improve vehicle performance.
• Lighten the load by getting the junk out of the trunk and the excessive things out of your car. Extra items weigh the vehicle down and cause an increase in gas usage. Of course, emergency items such as a spare tire, flashlight and a first-aid kit should always have a place inside your car.
• Check your vehicle’s gas cap and avoid unnecessary fill-ups. Loose, damaged or missing gas caps cause millions of gallons of gas to evaporate into the air every year. Topping off your gas tank when filling up your car can also release harmful vapors into the environment.

For more information and tips on environmental awareness, as well as the popular digital Car Care Guide, visit www.carcare.org.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images / Article: Family Features

Tips for a safe, long-lasting vehicle.

While driving a new vehicle off the lot may sound tempting, the financial commitment it brings is not an option for most families.

Instead, hanging on to your old set of wheels is the smarter choice for a number of reasons. Taking good care of your car not only improves safety and dependability, it can have a positive impact on your wallet.

“Hanging on to your current vehicle allows you to redirect money you would spend on a new car to pay off credit card debt, college loans and other bills, beef up savings or even take a road trip vacation,” said Rich White, executive director with the Car Care Council. “By simply budgeting the equivalent of just one new car payment, consumers could cover an entire year’s worth of basic maintenance.”

Even the cost of fixing a serious engine issue is a more sensible economic decision, added White. For the cost of an average down payment on a new car or truck, a vehicle can be repowered with a remanufactured or rebuilt engine and gain years of reliable service.

“The bottom line is that a properly maintained vehicle is safer, more dependable, more fuel efficient, less polluting and more valuable,” White added.

The experts at the Car Care Council offer these 10 general tips for those looking to maintain the life of their vehicle:

1. Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze or coolant.
2. Check hoses and belts to make sure they are not cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or showing signs of 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 engine performance to make sure it is delivering the best balance of power and fuel economy and producing the lowest level of emissions.
7. Check the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system as proper heating and cooling performance is critical for interior comfort and safety.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. Check the wipers and lighting so that you can see and be seen. Check that all interior and exterior lighting is working properly and replace worn wiper blades so you can see clearly when driving during precipitation.

The next time you consider purchasing a new car, think about investing in the vehicle you already own for significant savings, as well as enhanced reliability and safety. For more tips to extend the life of your car, visit www.carcare.org.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images / Article: Family Features