Because vehicles have changed over the years, the Car Care Council has introduced the "21st Century Tune-Up" program to help educate motorists about tuning up present-day vehicles.
"There is a misconception that today's modern vehicles don't need tune-ups because they never break down, but that simply is not true," said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council. "If you're at work and your computer goes down, you can't get any more work done. It's the same with your vehicle. If the vehicle isn't being properly maintained, you're not going to get where you want to go."
As part of the "21st Century Tune-Up," the following systems should be inspected:
* Battery, charging and starting
* Engine mechanics
* Power-train control, including onboard diagnostic checks
* Fuel
* Ignition
* Emissions
Motorists should become familiar with their vehicles from every aspect. Study the owner's manual to become acquainted with the operation of all systems. Pay special attention to the indicator lights and instruments.
The Car Care Council is the source of information for the "Be Car Care Aware" consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair. For more information, visit www.carcare.org.
Media Release Date: 2/16/05