Car Maintenance : Automotive News Articles

Motorists who think the only way around high gasoline prices is hopping on public transportation or switching to a hybrid vehicle should think again. Better driving habits and regular vehicle maintenance can help any motorist save money by using less gasoline. According to the Car Care Council, simply replacing a

College-bound students have one more task to add to their checklist of things to do before classes begin: car care. A well-maintained vehicle is safer and more economical to operate than one that's neglected. In addition there's peace of mind in knowing that the vehicle has been serviced before you

It's definitely time to clean your car when someone writes "wash me" on the surface. Even if your car hasn't reached that point, a good cleaning of the inside and outside prevents the buildup of damaging chemicals and dirt, reduces the potential for rust from road salt and helps ensure

Keeping an eye on your transmission fluid levels can help keep your car running smoothly-and help you avoid costly repairs down the road. Unfortunately, not all cars have transmissions that can be easily checked by the owner. Newer models are frequently made without fluid dipsticks.

Approximately 50 percent of people say a lack of time is a bigger problem in their lives than a lack of money, according to the 2006 Yankelovich MONITOR “Finding Time Perspective” report. Seventy percent of consumers 16 years and older say they don’t have enough time to do all the

To keep your car on the road to safety and savings, heed these hints before your next long trip: Inspect the driveway-If you see oil where you park, you could have a problem. Have your car inspected by a professional.

What type of tires do you have? Don’t know? You’re not alone. Most people don’t have a clue, and, truth be told, they aren’t all that interested in knowing.

Preventive maintenance typically implies looking under the vehicle's hood; often, though, it's the chassis underneath the vehicle that's overlooked. According to the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA), underperformed vehicle maintenance in the American automotive aftermarket is over $50 billion annually.

As a driver's ultimate connection to the road, tires need to be regularly inspected and properly maintained or replaced to preserve their performance and handling characteristics.

Now is the time for motorists to be getting their vehicles in shape for the busy summer travel season. The pros at the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, the group that tests and certifies automotive service professionals, remind vehicle owners that good communication between shop and customer can help

How many picture-perfect autumn days have you spent washing and waxing your car or truck in anticipation of harsh winter weather. As you were rubbing the last bit of wax off the car, did the thought “there has to be a better way” cross your mind? But you do it

Which is more important, saving money on car repairs or saving your life? Finding a reputable shop to take your vehicle for major repairs-perhaps due to an accident or mechanical problems-can help protect you, your passengers and your wallet from harm.

Determining whether or not a vehicle requires a specific service or repair is one of the key tasks of automotive technicians and repair facilities-and one of the great mysteries for the average consumer.

Want more horsepower without paying much to get it? Here are three ways today's top racers get more power from their race cars-and their personal cars-without spending a lot of money to do it.

While warmer weather inspires a big cleanup in most households, car owners would be wise to be just as thorough with their cars. "After a winter of cold wear and tear, it's incredibly important to have your car ready for the other extreme-a summer of scorching wear and tear."

Mothers teach their children that the five senses-hearing, sight, smell, taste and touch-are important for learning about the world around them. These same senses can also help moms-and women in general-with vehicle maintenance.

Many people believe that their vehicle's cooling system never needs to be serviced, or it just needs a top off every now and then. But, cooling system maintenance is extremely important for every day vehicle performance, and the life of antifreeze depends on its ability to stand against temperature extremes

Spring is here and if you haven't already done so, it's time to take a look at your tires and equip your vehicle with something suitable for the spring and summer seasons. But don't just rush out and buy the first set of tires you find, or the ones with

As winter wanes, people start looking forward to summer rituals. For some, that might mean packing away heavy coats and sweaters in favor of windbreakers and t-shirts. For others, it could mean a glimpse of the first tulip of the season. And for those who love their cars, it means

Don’t risk being stranded or getting less than you should from your car at trade in. A little attention to the basics now will improve its appearance and performance for years to come. Now scheduling with your service center is easy, thanks to this handy checklist of items for the

Spring is a time of fresh starts and renewals. Extend the “spring cleanup” you give your house and yard to your vehicle. You’ll not only improve its performance and lengthen its life, but you’ll spare yourself time, money and aggravation.

With so many wonderful and interesting U.S. cities, an increasing number of Americans are forgoing international travel in favor of road trips to the beach, mountains, and other domestic hotspots. If you count yourself among them, make sure your vehicle is in good condition before hitting the wide, open road.

When taking a family camping trip or cross-country journey, recreational vehicles can provide many of the creature comforts of home. Beds, bathrooms, televisions and even kitchen appliances often come installed in these large, versatile vehicles.

Regardless of a given month's fluctuations in gas prices, improving your vehicle's rate of miles per gallon can be a quick way to save a potentially significant amount of money.

Long weekends, road trips to favorite fishing spots or summer cottages suggest long traveling distances, overloaded vehicles and high tire temperatures. Add low tire pressure, found in 30 percent of all cars and light trucks, and a potentially dangerous situation develops.

Parents and students will do well to get their vehicles in shape now, before heading off to college, according to the pros and the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Many breakdowns can be avoided entirely by routine maintenance. The following tips from ASE should give parent and

Summer's heat and stop-and-go traffic can cause poorly functioning automotive systems to fail outright. To prevent vacation-ruining breakdowns, the experts at the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence offer the following tips on getting your vehicle ready for summer.

Your ride might be a “driver”, a concourse-quality “trailer-queen” or even a racecar. No matter what you drive, there is no doubt that a detailed car that “pops” grabs your attention. And who doesn’t like to drive a nicely detailed car? And if you are a gear-head like me, yes

Thanks to Groundhog Day, a growing number of drivers are seeing a way to increase their driving safety. They're using the holiday as a reminder to change their car's wiper blades.

Whenever you decide to do your "spring cleaning," be it April, May or October, you may want to put your vehicle on the list of things that could use some sprucing up.

Is your car's oil ready to be changed? Do you know how much air pressure is in its tires? Even if you don't know the answers to these important maintenance questions, there's a chance your vehicle might.

Along with the change of seasons from fall to winter comes the likelihood of poor road conditions and reduced visibility. Automotive breakdowns, never convenient, can be even more dangerous in cold weather. Preventive vehicle maintenance can help lessen the odds of mechanical failure.

Smart shoppers, like smart motorists, make better decisions when they know all of the options. When your car or truck suffers major engine damage, often the first reaction is to buy a new or used vehicle. However, many times that simply is not necessary or cost effective.

Proper maintenance is key to keeping your vehicle running safely for years to come. Yet a recent survey found that for many drivers, maintenance takes a backseat to other priorities.

Special occasions aren't the only times to celebrate your loved ones. As the calendar year marches on, it is always important to let the people (and things) that matter the most to you know how much you care for them. Send the special woman in your life flowers for no

As the seasons change, so do the maintenance needs of your vehicle. Fall is a great time to focus on preventative maintenance and to make sure that your vehicle is in top shape before the harsh winter months set in.

Spring training gives baseball players a chance to stretch their muscles, improve reflexes, and test their equipment. The automotive enthusiast would be well served to treat this time of year with the same approach. How can you take the same "batting practice" approach with your vehicles?

Spring is a perfect time for automotive maintenance. You can undo the wear and tear of winter driving and get ready for the busy summer season ahead. Trouble is, with today's busy lifestyles and complex vehicles, many car owners have neither the time nor inclination to perform car care.

American drivers appear to be more concerned about keeping their cars clean than keeping their tires properly inflated. According to the federal government, 660 fatalities and 33,000 injuries occur every year as a result of low tire pressure-related crashes.

Maintaining your vehicle's radiator and cooling system is important for keeping your car in good working order. Regardless of the temperature outside, a vehicle's engine produces enough excess heat to quickly damage or destroy the engine if it is not properly cooled by the cooling system. Fortunately, there are a

How often do you check your tires for wear and proper air pressure? If you’re like most Americans, not often enough. A September 2006 survey by the Rubber Manufacturer’s Association (RMA) found the majority of motorists are not paying enough attention to the only component that keeps a car on

When consumers think of safety features in a new vehicle or truck, safety belts, air bags and anti-lock brakes may quickly come to mind. However, a relatively unknown fact is that the windshield also plays a pivotal role in overall automobile safety.

Maybe there is a special occasion coming up or it may be that you are just tired of listening to your brother-in-law tell you what a superb job his detailer does. Whatever the reason might be, you can have your car looking fantastic without having to pay a professional detailer

With Winter fast approaching it may be a good idea to check your car’s heater and make sure it is in prime working condition especially if you are still trying to thaw out from last year’s heating nightmare.

Many people don’t know how to select motor oil that will help them get optimum performance out of their car. People often just select the oil their father used, or they may take the suggestion of a counter person at an auto parts store who may not know any more

Frigid temperatures and poor road conditions won't leave you out in the cold or take a toll on your vehicle if you take the right steps to make sure your car is winter-weather ready. Here are a few simple suggestions that should help steer you in the right direction.

Now that Winter is here you are thinking that it just might be a good idea to check your car's heater. It was on your long list of things to do, but you did not get to it yet. You do remember it wasn't working so well at the end

It has happened to almost everyone. You have to get somewhere important and the car won’t start. You may be trying to get to work, pick up your child, or the all encompassing drive to (add your favorite fast food restaurant here). Whatever it is, the car won’t even try

The winter months are upon us and this season can really be hard on cars. You should do a little bit of preventative maintenance to help your car make it through the winter months with out a glitch. This is a good time to check out your car's emergency kit

Most of us have figured out windshield wiper blades are not something we think about, until they don't work. You are driving, it begins to rain, you switch on the wipers, and you still can't see. Then you remember, you meant to change them, but didn't.

To keep your car in good condition and running as it should, you should read your automotive owners manual and pay attention to the suggested maintenance schedule provided by the car manufacturer. Following this schedule of servicing advice your car should run well, remain in good condition and last you

The holidays may be “the most wonderful time of the year” but winter months can be the worst for your vehicle. While holiday lights twinkle and shoppers pound the pavement, salt, sand, melted snow and temperature fluctuations can wreak havoc on your car, truck or SUV – both inside and

We all know accidents happen – and they happen more frequently in bad weather. According to the AAA, loss of visibility, slick roads and poorly maintained brakes lead to thousands of accidents every year, and the highest number of weather-related injuries and fatalities occur during the wet and snowy months

True or false? The best time to check your tires is when they are warm (soon after being driven several miles). If you answered true, you are among the 85 percent of motorists who, according to a recent survey, do not know how to check tire pressure properly.

Tires are filled with compressed air right? That has been the understanding for a long time now. At least it was until the last few years. New tires are often coming filled with nitrogen instead of the traditional compressed air.

You’re positive you need to get an eye exam. The old glasses just aren’t working like they used to. Look again, it’s not your glasses that’s the problem, your windshield is covered in dust, grime, and the remnants of several swarms of bugs. So don’t go blaming Lenscrafters. Here are

Friction is the force that opposes the relative motion or tendency of such motion of two surfaces in contact. That's the encyclopedia description. But we all have our own description of engine friction. It usually adds up to poor performance under the hood and frustrating driving experiences.

This winter, as you prepare for the hustle and bustle of shopping, holiday parties and family gatherings, don't forget that your car needs some seasonal preparation too. Along with vehicle maintenance, as the temperature drops and driving conditions change, drivers need to be more aware and prepared on the road.

Routine vehicle service and maintenance should be considered an investment rather than an annoyance, according to the experts at the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. In addition to catching hidden safety problems or minor glitches before they become expensive headaches, regular maintenance extends the life of your car or

Ask the average person what a big cost of driving and maintaining a car or truck is, and they will say their insurance or fuel. But if you bought your vehicle new, you'd likely be wrong. The biggest monthly "cost" is pure depreciation. The average Canadian sees the equivalent of

As temperatures plunge from cold to freezing, winter preparedness becomes all the more important. Long after winter's sweaters have been pulled from their summer hibernation, people remain woefully unprepared for vehicle emergencies. While most people have jumper cables and maybe a blanket in their car, those that have had the

Another rite of passing from fall to winter is the stocking-up on windshield washer fluid, the saviour of driving sight that clears everything from ice to dirt to road salt, during messy winter driving. While windshield washer fluid has been around for decades in one form or another (typically with

Like every budding romance, a new engine starts with a strong spark. But, like many aging romances, vehicles lose their spark over time. While couples are left up to their own measures to keep their spark alive, vehicle owners have it much easier to keep their cars or trucks running

Can you imagine wearing one boot and one flip flop outside on a cold winter's day? Of course not. But did you know it's just as crucial to outfit all four of your vehicle's wheels with proper winter tires too? Michelin-certified Alliance Tire Professionals dealers provide some helpful facts about

With winter just around the corner, some of us are more prepared than others. Some folks have had their cord wood stacked for months, their snow blower tuned and their snow tires switched over, but still aren't fully protected where they need to be most: under the hood of their

There is a common perception that winter tires are only necessary for people living in snow-clad, mountainous regions. Others think that winter tires wear out more quickly than all-season tires because they are more expensive. Both of these are misconceptions. Michelin-certified Alliance Tire Professionals dealers have dispelled these myths and

A new guide for motorists turns technical automotive jargon into easy-to-understand, everyday language, taking the mystery out of vehicle maintenance and repair. The free guide, published by the Car Care Council, can be ordered online at www.carcare.org. The guide, which fits easily in a glove box, explains the nine most

Automotive breakdowns, never convenient, can be dangerous in cold weather. Preventive maintenance can help lessen the odds of mechanical failure. Use the following checklist from the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence as a guide.

Right now the weather is warm and pleasant, but before you know it, temperatures will cool off and there will be snow on the ground. Not only is now a good time to check your furnace and seal up the cracks around windows and doors, you should get your car

When temperatures plummet and snow piles up, a dead car battery can be a huge inconvenience at best, and a life-threatening emergency at worst. The best time to winterize your car and brush up on some battery basics is before the cold weather arrives. “The battery is literally the life

The nation's top mechanics are rejecting the recommendation by some in the auto field that cars can go 5,000 miles or more before oil is changed. National Institute for Auto-motive Service Excellence (ASE)-certified Master Automobile technicians weighed in on this and other issues in a survey conducted by Valvoline. The

How much of your rubber meets the road may determine your safety, according to the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA). The group urges motorists to “Be Tire Smart” and make sure tires are properly maintained and safe for the road. One way to ensure you have good grip on the road

Recent research by the Rubber Manufacturers Association tells us that more people wash their cars each month than properly check their tire pressure. But a clean car is not going to do much to keep us safe on the roads. Adding a few minutes to your fall car care routine

Since President Bush announced an agenda for weaning the country from dependency on foreign oil, new ethanol plants have been popping up across the nation. Ethanol demand is rising. If you fuel your car in the U.S., you are putting ethanol in your gas tank because regular gasoline now contains

Who do you turn to when you have a question about vehicle maintenance? If you consider your husband or boyfriend the “expert” on such things, you may be asking the wrong person. A national survey sponsored by Jiffy Lube International found that while 69 percent of men and 64 percent

Car care in the autumn months helps you get ready for winter conditions, of course, but regular maintenance has other benefits as well. According to the experts at the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, vehicle owners will benefit from longer vehicle life, increased gasoline mileage and better resale

As warmer weather approaches, it is time to wash the sand and salt from your vehicle and perform some routine maintenance activities to keep your vehicle running smoothly this summer. Since May is Car Care Month across Canada, motorists are urged to take a few minutes to treat their vehicles

Many Americans suffering from sticker shock at the gas pump could get an additional 10 miles out of every fill-up. In fact, American motorists could save more than $1.1 billion in unnecessary fuel costs. One of the fastest, easiest and least expensive ways to improve a vehicle's gas mileage is

Before hitting the road, take a few minutes to check the condition of your tires. Well-maintained tires keep your car safer, help it last longer and save you money at the gas pump, too. These tips from the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) will help to keep your tires in

Early fall, before cold weather sets in, is an optimal time for car care, according to the experts at the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). There's time to undo summer's wear and tear and prep for icy conditions ahead.

As temperatures begin to rise, so does the anticipation of being able to drive with the windows down and the wind blowing in your hair during America's hottest season. Amid today's ever-changing fuel landscape, it is important for drivers to educate themselves about how to make smarter decisions for their

Steering motorists toward peace of mind when their check-engine light turns on is a simple tool that gives them the ability to quickly determine the cause of the warning. Until recently, professional auto technicians with sophisticated scanning tools were needed to identify problems. The PocketScan® by Actron is about the

You know you're supposed to take your car in for its regular service, but if it isn't convenient, it may not seem that important. However, neglecting to regularly care for your car can result in serious problems or, at the very least, impact its value over time-and getting back where

You might think your car or truck is clean. However, most drivers are carrying around a dirty little secret and don't even know it. That's why keeping the interior of your vehicle clean is important, especially for people with allergies.

Maintaining your vehicle is essential if you want to keep it running well and operating at peak performance. The usual maintenance procedures, such as oil changes, are usually not issues for most people – but performing basic maintenance operations to keep your radiator and engine running well are just as

You've worked hard all year and summer vacation is right around the corner. You deserve some rest and relaxation, but nothing can ruin a vacation like being stranded on the side of the road miles from your destination. As you prepare to get away this summer, follow these helpful tips

Sometimes it really is what's on the outside that counts. That's the opinion of many of today's car owners who say they're always on the lookout for ways to make their autos look better. While many drivers turn to high-tech fixes, accessories and add-ons to change the look of their

Imagine falling in love with your vehicle all over again. You know, having the same sense of pride you felt when you first drove off the dealer's lot. Possible? With a little elbow grease applied to the exterior and interior, plus a mechanical inspection by a trusted automotive technician, almost

Self inflating tires are not readily available for the majority of vehicles. The military and some commercial vehicles are fitted with them along with the Hummer. The Hummer is famous for being Arnold Schwarzenegger’s “new baby”.

Summer is the season for major car battery problems. Heat, not cold, shortens battery life, says the Car Care Council. The average life of a battery is three and a half years, and even shorter in warmer climates.

Most owners know their vehicles require routine maintenance, including periodic inspection of their batteries, spark plugs, tires, windshield wipers, filters and fluids. But often the parts drivers can't see-such as shock absorbers and struts, located under the vehicle-don't get the attention they deserve. In addition to causing an uncomfortable ride

It's the season for getting our vehicles in gear for 2006. Let's begin with the only part of your car or truck that actually touches the highway-your tires. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says underinflation is the leading cause of tire failure-and tire failure can lead to accidents.

One of the best things about owning a new car is its smooth, shiny "showroom" look. Maintaining that look-by washing and waxing your car regularly and touching up any scratches-can keep it looking new longer. Fortunately, the latest cars are finished with a high-tech process that makes it easier for

There is good reason why states with Periodic Motor Vehicle Inspection (PMVI) programs require damaged windshields to be repaired or replaced before a vehicle passes inspection. The windshield, seatbelts and airbags make up what automobile design engineers refer to as the vehicle’s passenger safety restraint system (SRS).

Winter can be tough on lots of things, including cars and trucks. Cold temperatures, snow and ice, road salt and pothole-causing freeze-thaw cycles put car batteries, tires, brakes and suspensions to the test. Spring is the time to rid vehicles of winter’s sins in time for summer travel.

Our list continues with 3 more auto maintenance check points to address before leaving for your summer road trip. A little preventive maintenance is the first step towards making your vacation more pleasant. (Don’t miss the first 3 major checkpoints in Summer Maintenance check points 1-3.)

Anytime of year can be the right time to get your car in tip-top shape. Experts know that a top-notch pit crew can make the difference between winning or being an also-ran-even if you're just getting ready for the next family trip. That's why it's important to remember that not

Here's news you may want to brush up on: Using touch-up paint on your car can be an inexpensive way to protect its value. Some scratches can remove all the paint down to the metal and the area can begin to rust, causing permanent damage. There are several choices for

As gasoline prices fluctuate in each day's headlines, conservation is taking on a new importance. The automotive industry is doing its part with research and development into various technologies, some of which may make it to the marketplace. But until then, motorists are looking for concrete steps they can take

Summer's fast approaching, and for many that means making plans for the traditional family getaway at the beach, mountains or with distant relatives. For most it means packing the kids, luggage, coolers and equipment into the family vehicle and hitting the highways. Smart families know they should get their vehicles


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