Colder Weather Triggers Need for Car Care

(NAPSI)-Colder weather is on its way, driving the need to winterize vehicles. With more than one million hours of technical training behind them, GM Goodwrench technicians nationwide offer the public expert vehicle maintenance and advice.

"Impending winter weather reminds us of the importance of vehicle safety," said Doug Herberger, GM North America vice president and general manager of Service and Parts Operations. "We all want our families to be safe and secure on the road, and that begins with proper vehicle care and maintenance. GM Goodwrench dealers have the expertise, knowledge and technology to make sure your GM vehicle is properly cared for with maintenance that can prevent problems down the road."

While some mechanical failures are unavoidable, most can be traced to poor maintenance and often can be easily prevented. The U.S. Department of Transportation reports the leading cause of mechanical breakdowns on our nation's highways is overheating-an easily avoidable condition. Low coolant, worn or loose belts, and defective hoses-common causes of breakdown-can be simple for a certified technician to detect and correct.

The Car Care Council reports that 87 percent of the vehicles inspected at check lanes during the last Car Care Month failed at least one aspect of the inspection. GM Goodwrench invites consumers to visit a local dealer for an inspection to ensure that their vehicle is up to date on its maintenance needs. The inspections can help to make sure a vehicle is properly serviced so it runs better, lasts longer, retains its value and provides optimal safety and security.

Maintenance Tips

Oil: Changing oil and filters at recommended intervals minimizes engine wear and reduces possibilities of internal damage.

Batteries: A weak battery can leave you stranded-almost always at the worst time and place.

Tires: It's not just tread life that should be checked, it's also air pressure. Incorrect air pressure can compromise vehicle ride and control.

Brakes: Only an expert inspection can make sure your brakes are functioning properly with full braking capability.

Windshield Wipers: Old or worn windshield wipers can lead to poor visibility in winter driving conditions and glare from the sun or headlamps of other vehicles.

Fluid Levels: Low or high fluid levels-including coolant, oil, power steering, transmission, brake fluid and even washer solvent-can affect vehicle performance and safety.

Belts and Hoses: A broken belt or ruptured hose can cause costly engine damage and travel delays.

Headlamps: Properly aimed headlamps are a must for helping you see and helping you be seen.

Goodwrench is the service brand for GM vehicles. With dealerships located nationwide, the GM Goodwrench network is one of the largest automotive service chains in the industry. GM Goodwrench technicians receive specialized training from General Motors to provide expert care for GM cars and trucks. Genuine GM replacement parts are manufactured to the exact specifications of the GM vehicle. For more information, visit the GM Goodwrench web site at www.goodwrench.com.