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Car Care Tips It doesn't matter if you're driving
the latest sports utility with all the options or the beloved wreck that
witnessed the dawn of disco fever. If you break down, you have problems. Regular automotive checkups and
quality maintenance can spell the difference between being on the road or in
the shop. And it's really not that hard. To help, the Environmental
Protection Agency and the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence
(ASE) have released a set of five publications known collectively as Glove
Box Tips. And from the Department of Transportation and the Tire Industry
Safety Council comes the Motorist's Tire Care and Safety Guide. When you're behind the wheel,
everything's riding on your tires -- literally. Choosing the right tires,
keeping them properly inflated and maintained, and practicing good driving
habits result in a safer, more efficient ride. Have you checked the air in your
tires this month? If not, it's time you did. Tires that are underinflated,
even slightly, reduce gas mileage and wear faster than those kept at the
right pressure. You'll find the correct inflation
pressure on the tire sidewall, on a sticker inside the door, or in your
owner's manual. Using your own tire gauge -- the automatic ones at the gas
station aren't always reliable -- measure the pressure while the tires are
cold, meaning you haven't just driven more than a mile. If necessary, add
air. Don't overinflate. Too much air is just as bad as not enough. Learn more
about tire care, including when and how they should be rotated, and tips on
buying new ones, with the Motorist's Tire Care and Safety Guide. It doesn't take pit crew experience
to talk with your technician and get good service. The publications included
in Glove Box Tips show you how. An important first step is finding a reliable
garage. Don't wait until you need one to begin looking, though. Start by
asking friends and coworkers for recommendations, then visit several shops.
At each, ask yourself, Is it neat and well-organized? Is the equipment modern
and in good shape? Are labor rates, guarantees, and other policies posted?
Also look for service awards, AAA-Approved Auto Repair status, and ASE
certifications awarded to technicians. To get a better feel for how a
repair facility operates, take your car in for a minor job. If everything
goes well and you're satisfied with the work, it's likely you'll be
comfortable going in for bigger repairs down the road. It's also reassuring
having a place you can trust if emergency repairs are necessary. You'll learn more about keeping your
car in good shape with the set of publications, Glove Box Tips. It includes
tips and advice on preparing your car for the elements, both hot and cold,
how to find and receive reliable repair service, and what you can do to
reduce auto pollution and environmental damage. NOTE: GOOD SERVICE BEGINS WITH GOOD
COMMUNICATION You'd probably notice right away a
strange clanging in your engine or a rattle coming from the trunk. But to
help your technician isolate the problem, also note other characteristics and
circumstances that could be related. Here are a few questions to ask
yourself: Have you noticed... Unusual sounds or odors? Drips,
leaks, smoke, warning lights or gauge readings? Changes in acceleration, gas
mileage, etc.? Problems handling, braking, or steering? When does the problem
occur? All the time or just once in awhile? While the engine is cold or after
it's warmed up? During acceleration, braking, shifting, or at all speeds?
When did it first start? Any other symptoms the technician should know about?
Providing as much information as possible helps the technician make the right
diagnosis and get your vehicle back on its feet. |
