Spring 2011
Advertising \Supplement to the Grand Forks Herald, Friday, April 15, 2011
Preventive maintenance to keep your car on the road 2 Grand Forks Herald/Friday, April 15, 2011
MetroCreative
Many motorists bemoan the myriad costs associated with owning a vehicle. According to the National Automobile Dealers Association, the average price for a new car in the United States is slightly more than $28,000. But as any vehicle owner knows, that sticker price is only the beginning. The cost of maintaining a vehicle and keeping it on the road is not exactly small potatoes. As the economy begins to rebound, a significant percentage of motorists have resolved to keep their vehicles on the road longer in an effort to stretch their automobile dollars. That’s a sound resolution, and one that is not necessarily difficult to accomplish. Contrary to popular belief, cars are built to last, and it’s often a vehicle owner’s poor habits that reduce a car’s life expectancy as opposed to the vehicle manufacturer’s shoddy product. Drivers looking to lengthen their vehicle’s lifespan can employ preventive maintenance that should keep a car running strong for years to come.
Air filter
When examining the vehicle’s air filter (check the vehicle manual for location), look
demarcation, add fluid up to that line. But be careful not to overfill. Check the brake fluid levels on a monthly basis.
tice an instant impact in how the car drives and are likely to save a few dollars at the filling station as well.
Belts and hoses
Motor oil
Issues with belts or hoses are often recognizable to the naked eye, regardless of a driver’s automotive skill. A hose in poor condition can appear bulging or brittle, and should not feel too soft or too hard. If a hose exhibits any of these symptoms, replace it. A belt that’s worn or frayed should also be replaced.
Oil change guidelines have changed dramatically thanks to better cars and more reliable motor oils. But it still helps to check motor oil levels after every fill up. If motor oil levels are low, add more oil. If oil is significantly low after each fill up, consult a mechanic just to be safe.
Exhaust
Brake fluid
Vehicle owners who practice easy, routine maintenance can often add years to their vehicle’s life. for dirt or dust buildup. If the filter is filthy, simply replace it. Auto parts stores sell air filters, and most drivers shouldn’t have trouble replacing a filter by themselves. A dirty air filter can negatively effect fuel economy and make it seem as though a vehicle is constantly going uphill in a stiff wind. When a dirty air filter is replaced, drivers will no-
Once a year, be it at a routine tuneup or should repair work be necessary, ask your mechanic to check the vehicle’s emissions. Failing an emissions test might be against the law, and a failed test could be indicative of a larger problem. In addition, inspect the muffler and exhaust pipe for holes, particularly after winter, when debris from snow trucks may do significant damage. Replace any damaged or rusted parts.
One of the more expensive repair jobs on a vehicle is to replace the brakes. Brakes will need to be replaced over the course of a vehicle’s lifespan, but drivers should routinely check the vehicle’s brake fluid. Without sufficient brake fluid, the brakes’ lifespan decreases dramatically. Checking the brake fluid is easy, simply look in the owner’s manual to find brake fluid reservoir and remove the lid (some vehicles might require the lid be unscrewed). The reservoir will likely have instructions on the inside advising how much brake fluid should be added. If the fluid is below the line of
Power Steering
Power steering fluid should also be inspected on a monthly basis. Checking power steering is the same as checking the oil, but it helps to also inspect the
pump for any leaks.
Tires
Keeping tires properly inflated pays numerous dividends. Properly inflated tires make it easier for the engine to operate, lowering fuel costs while also decreasing wear and tear on the engine. The owner’s manual should list a recommended tire pressure, and the local filling station likely has an air pump. Maintaining tires also involves checking for wear and tear. Uneven wear could indicate the tires are misaligned. Discuss this with your mechanic.
Transmission fluid
When checking transmission fluid, do so while the car is running and after the engine has warmed up. Always be certain to put the parking brake on when checking transmission fluid. If the vehicle needs transmission fluid, add the recommended fluid but be careful not to overfill. Prolonging a vehicle’s lifespan is not as difficult as it sounds. Oftentimes, all it takes is minor, yet routine, maintenance to keep a car on the road for years and years.
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Automotive trade schools a popular choice for recent graduates
Grand Forks Herald/Friday, April 15, 2011 3
MetroCreative
The changing face of today’s job market has led to an increase in the popularity of trade schools among both high school graduates and professionals looking for a career change. Job seekers are eager to quickly enter a workforce that offers stable employment opportunities. According to a survey by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be approximately 2.3 million unfilled jobs in various skilled trades in 2010. The automotive industry is no exception to this trend. An Occupational Outlook publication from the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that auto service technician and mechanic jobs will grow 18 percent between 2000 to 2010. The report states that job opportunities are expected to be good for people with formal training; strong diagnostic and problem solving skills; and knowledge of electronics and mathematics. “Whether consumers are driving sports cars, hybrids, electric vehicles or motorcycles, there is always going to be
An Ohio Technical College student receives hands-on training in his automotive electronics course. a need for qualified automotive technicians,” said Tom King, director of enrollment management at Ohio Technical College (OTC), a Clevelandbased school providing technical training in a variety of transportation industries. “As baby boomers retire, competition for those qualified work-
ers will grow and ultimately increase the availability of more high-paying skilled labor jobs.” Ohio Technical College is currently teaching 1,000 future techs how to service the many vehicles on today’s roads as well as those still on the horizon. Founded in 1969, the school draws students from all
over the country to study a wide variety of technician training programs in Automotive, Diesel, Auto-Diesel, Collision Repair, Classic Car Restoration, High Performance and Racing, Welding and PowerSport Technology. Many trade schools, including Ohio Technical College, offer an advantageous balance of classroom learning and realworld shop skills using the latest technology and equipment. The specialized training helps job seekers increase their marketable skills and their ability to gain employment. Depending on which program a student graduates from, OTC boasts a job placement percentage between 80 to 95 percent. “The hands-on experience of a technical trade school is very appealing to today’s employers, many of whom are too shortstaffed and pressed for time to invest in extensive training,” continues King. “And the shorter certificate programs typically cost less money than a four-year university.” For instance, Ohio Technical College students enroll in 18-
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Automotive leaks: How to find ‘em and fix ‘em 4
Grand Forks Herald/Friday, April 15, 2011
MetroCreative
Drips on the driveway. Stains on the cement. Something’s leaking under the hood of your vehicle. An automotive fluid’s distinctive color can help the doit-yourselfer get to the bottom of what’s leaking: coolant (bright green or red), oil (oily brown), trans fluid (oily red) or power steering (clear). Just slip an old bed sheet or piece of white cardboard under the vehicle overnight and by the next morning you’ll have the answer. That tells you what kind of leak you have — part one of the process. But part two is figuring out where the leak’s coming from so you can repair it. To eliminate the guesswork and be absolutely certain where the leak is coming from, now there’s a quick, easy way.
And you don’t need to be a mechanic to fix it. Super Seal Automotive Stop Leak is a two-part “Find-aLeak / Seal-a-Leak” system. It contains both ultraviolet (UV) dye to easily detect the source of the leak, and advanced sealing chemistry to repair common leaks in automotive engines, transmissions, radiators and power steering systems. After adding the UV dye chemical to system, simply start the engine and drive the car or let it idle for fifteen minutes to allow the “Find-a-Leak” dye to circulate. Stop the engine, then inspect. See the UV dye? That’s where your leak is (for best results, use a UV light with goggles). Then, use an engine degreaser or other cleaning product to remove any lingering dye.
Caring for your car during summer Car Care Council
Summer can be tough on cars, especially during high temperatures when heat can destroy batteries and stress the cooling system and tires. As a precaution, these vehicle components should be checked periodically during summer to help avoid breakdowns and car problems, according to the Car Care Council. Excessive heat and overcharging shorten the life of a battery. Heat causes battery fluid to evaporate, which then damages the internal structure of the battery. A malfunctioning component in the charging
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system, usually the voltage regulator, allows too high a charging rate, which will eventually destroy a battery. To get the most life out of a battery, the council recommends having the electrical system checked to make sure it is charging at the correct rate. If your car’s battery is the type that needs to be topped off, check it often, especially in hot weather and add distilled water if necessary. Keep the top of the battery clean. Dirt can become a conductor, which drains battery power. If corrosion accumulates on battery
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Now that you’ve found the source of the leak, the next step is to fix it. Add the entire contents of the appropriate Super Seal “Fix-a-Leak” Sealer. After driving for the first tankful, do another leak check for the UV dye. No leaks? No signs of UV dye? Then you’re good to go. Larger size leaks may require a second application or professional repair. Super Seal comes in four applications: 12-ounce Super Seal(R) Power Steering Stop Leak, 12-ounce Super Seal(R) Transmission Stop Leak, 12ounce Super Seal(R) Engine Oil Stop Leak, and 12-ounce Super Seal(R) Radiator Stop leak. These products are available at many automotive retailers and hardware stores. For more information, visit www.efproducts.com.
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5 Grand Forks Herald/Friday, April 15, 2011
SUMMER/
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Continued from Page 4
terminals, it becomes an insulator and inhibits the current flow. The cooling system also works harder during hot temperatures to prevent overheating of the engine. To keep the cooling system working effectively, the coolant and distilled water mixture for a vehicle’s radiator should be 50:50. As a reminder, never open a hot radiator cap when checking the coolant level in the reservoir. As a rule of thumb, the coolant should be changed annually on most vehicles. This will keep the cooling system fresh and clean inside, which helps prevent corrosion and assures that the coolant has the proper boiling point and protection. A pressure test, thermostat test, a cooling fan test and a visual inspection for leaks and corrosion should also be done annually. Hoses and drive belts should be checked for cracks, bulges or frayed edges. The radiator should be kept clean by periodically using a garden hose and a soft brush to carefully remove bugs, dirt and debris. Tires also need special care in warmer weather as high temperatures put added stress on them. To maximize tire life and safety, check the tire condition and inflation pressure monthly, and have the tires rotated every 6,000 miles. Summer heat will cause the pressure within a tire to rise, therefore, it’s important to check the pressure when tires are cold. The owner’s manual includes the recommended air pressure for your vehicle’s tires. “It takes very little time and money to make sure your car runs properly during summer, and although breakdowns happen, they can definitely be minimized by taking a few extra preventive maintenance steps,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. The council reminds motorists that the vehicle’s exterior also can be damaged by sunlight, UV radiation, acid rain, salt, dirt and air pollution. To protect the paint and finish, vehicles should be washed weekly and waxed every six months.
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Maintenance applies to your vehicle’s interior, too 6
Grand Forks Herald/Friday, April 15, 2011
MetroCreative
susceptible to UV rays. Whereas a human would apply sunscreen to his or her skin to protect against sunburn, drivers can apply a UV-protectant product to their vehicle’s interior to guard against problems that often result from overexposure to the sun. No Touch(R) Interior Detailing Mousse is specially formulated to protect a vehicle against UV rays that typically lead to fading, cracking, and aging. What’s more, its non-greasy formula leaves surfaces with a film-free finish, ensuring the car’s interior will look and feel like new without suffering any harmful side effects of sun exposure. No Touch(R) Interior Detailing Mousse also has an anti-static repellant, which helps keep the instrument panel free and clear of dust for safer and easier navigation.
Recent studies have estimated that many Americans spend as much as three hours a day in their cars. Over the course of a typical week, that’s almost one entire day behind the wheel. That not only translates to lots of face time with your vehicle’s interior, but it also provides ample opportunities for the buildup of dirt, grime, coffee, and food stains that can leave a car’s interior appearing haggard and worn. In addition to robbing a car’s interior of its aesthetic appeal, the buildup of dirt and grease can also cause the vehicle to degrade over time. Though it’s common to associate vehicle maintenance with what’s under the hood, drivers should also make maintenance a priority for the vehicle’s interior. When cleaning a car’s interior, address each and every nook and cranny.
Overcome the odor
Consoles and cup holders
Clean under the carpets
Particularly after a long winter, a vehicle’s carpets can be a major eyesore. Remove the floor mats and thoroughly vacuum any dirt buildup that might have multiplied with each winter snowstorm or spring shower. Your carpets will look better and last longer.
Dashboards and door panels In order to drive a vehicle, motorists must look out over the dashboard. Despite that, dashboards are often over-
An interior car care product like No Touch Interior Detailing Mousse from Permatex can help motorists easily and effectively combat dirt and grease buildup.
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Practice preventive care
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Drive pickups safely
MetroCreative
Around 3 million pickup trucks are purchased and used for various reasons across the country each year. With so many light trucks on the road, the wise driver can take heed of safety precautions when driving this type of vehicle. Pickup trucks tend to be the safer of the two vehicles in a collision with another car. This is called “passive safety.” The larger size and the higher stance means the vehicle will probably suffer less damage than the smaller car. Its height also puts it on par with the bumpers of other trucks and SUVs. However, pickups do have some disadvantages that will need to be taken into consideration in order to drive safely. Pickups have a higher rollover potential than passenger cars. Therefore, turning should be done slowly and corners shouldn’t be taken like one is driving on a racetrack. According to the Department of Transportation’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System, in 2007, the most recent year from which statistics are available, rollovers accounted for 59 percent of SUV fatalities, 46 percent of pickup truck deaths and 25 percent of car fatalities. Although pickups have a lower center of gravity than SUVs, they can still rollover if driven aggressively. Another thing to consider is the heavier weight of a pickup, which causes the pickup to have a longer stopping distance. This means pickup drivers will need to add an even greater space cushion between the pickup and other vehicles on the road to be able to avoid road hazards. Something else to consider is that pickups are not designed to be nimble, overly responsive vehicles. They are primarily designed for hauling. That means swerving around obstacles isn’t achieved as easily as it may be in a passenger car. Again, this drives home the point of leaving more space to react to the road. Pickup drivers should also note that many pickups, with the exception of a few, are rear-wheel drive vehicles. This
Drivers who prefer pickup trucks, like this Chevy Colorado, can drive safely if they understand the differences between pickups and cars.
Grand Forks Herald/Friday, April 15, 2011 7
7 automotive myths revealed MetroCreative
When it comes to cars, many drivers would admit their technical knowledge is lacking. In addition, automotive technology is constantly changing, making it hard to separate car facts from fiction. The following are some of the most common myths and misconceptions about vehicles. Myth 1: Higher octane fuel causes all cars to run better. Fuels are rated according to how they prevent detonation in the engine. Higher performance engines generally have higher compression ratios and are more prone to detonation. They require high-octane fuel
to prevent this. Other engines have different compression rates and usually require a lower-octane fuel. Unless a driver hears engine pinging or knocking, switching to a higher octane will not improve performance due to the engine design. Drivers can save their money and stick with “regular.” Myth 2: You must service your vehicle at the dealership or the warranty will be voided. It is illegal for dealerships to force service be done strictly at the dealership. Routine maintenance can be done by other vendors. Find out if certain MYTHS: See Page 8
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means that the back wheels power the forward movement of the truck. When the cargo bed is full, this can work out fine. However, when the cargo bed is empty, the front half of the truck tends to be the heavier part of the vehicle, and essentially the lighter half of the truck — the empty back — is pushing the truck along. On slick roadways this can cause fishtailing or poor breaking. An easy fix is to keep some sort of cargo in the bed to weigh down the rear of the vehicle, but this isn’t something all drivers remember. The height of pickup trucks (and SUVs for that matter) create blind zones in the back of the vehicle and below the front
grill. The organization Kids and Cars, which works to improve child safety, says that roughly 90 children die each year when drivers back over them while they are in blind zones. Items lying in the driveway, such as bicycles and toys, may also be the victims of blind zones. Pickup drivers should be aware of blind zones and make efforts to check these areas before backing up or pulling out. Backup cameras can also provide assistance. Pickup trucks are largely used for transporting personal belongings or for commercial purposes. They are much safer to drive when pickup owners know the particulars of truck design and maneuverability.
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5 steps to avoid engine overheating 8 Grand Forks Herald/Friday, April 15, 2011
MYTHS/
Continued from Page 7
after-market parts installation may affect the warranty, but even these should be okay. Myth 3: Idling uses less gas than restarting the engine. Drivers don’t have to sit idling, wasting gas and contributing to added emissions. Restarting a warm engine does not use more fuel than idling a car. Myth 4: All wheel drive (AWD) makes a vehicle invincible in inclement weather. AWD can provide some added traction going up a snowy hill or coming out of a turn on a rain-slicked surface, but it doesn’t make a vehicle invincible. AWD will do little to help a driver avoid road hazards or grip the pavement in corners. Tires, suspension and driver skill are essential as well. Myth 5: Side mirrors are prop-
An overheated engine can render a car useless in a matter of minutes. mised under high heat. Boiling coolant may cause the radiator and hoses to burst. The best way to avoid engine and vehicle trouble due to overheating is to prevent an engine from becoming overheated in the first place. Here are strategies to employ. 1. Ensure that coolant levels are maintained and there are
no leaks that would cause coolant to drip out. Be sure the right coolant is being used for the particular vehicle. 2. Dirty, inadequate motor oil cannot dissipate heat as well as clean oil. Check the oil level and viscosity. Change the oil before a long trip or if it looks past its prime. 3. Confirm radiator hoses are
erly adjusted when a driver can see the side of the car in each. In fact, they are improperly adjusted if the sides of the car can be viewed. Moving out the mirrors just a bit more reduces the need to look over a shoulder to check for blind spots, which takes a driver’s eyes off the road. Myth 6: All-season tires offer more traction in the rainy seasons. Unless a person lives in a locale with considerable snow-
fall, it’s best to avoid all-season tires. A standard tire has more grip, both wet and dry, than an equivalent all-season tire. Myth 7: Antilock braking systems were designed to create shorter stopping distances. ABS actually was created to enable a driver to steer out of danger and not spin out while braking. Shorter stopping distances may occur, but they’re a side effect of the system’s design.
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ing leaves or insects that may have collected. Men and women without auto maintenance experience should not touch anything under the hood. Consult with a mechanic to determine engine overheating causes.
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It is a common sight many an automobile owner is all to familiar with: A car is stranded on the side of the road with the hood open and smoke billowing out as an exasperated driver looks on shaking his or her head. An overheated engine can render a car useless in a matter of minutes. A vehicle is propelled by an engine that ignites gasoline and causes controlled explosions within. An engine can produce quite a lot of heat. Compound this with external temperatures and an overheated engine may occur. Other mechanical factors can also cause an engine to overheat. These include a faulty thermostat to regulate coolant supply to the engine and even an inoperable radiator fan. Experts say an average car engine is designed to operate within 195 to 220 F. Anything above that could cause engine failure. Overheating can cause a lot of damage to a car. It may damage and burn holes in the parts. Rings, pistons or rod bearings may become impaired, or one can blow a head gasket. Coolant is designed to protect an engine to a point, but it can also become compro-
in good working order and do not look worn out. 4. Have a mechanic check that a radiator fan is working and that there is adequate air flow through the radiator. 5. Be aware of engine temperature by watching the gauge on the dashboard. If an engine seems like it’s about to overheat, here are some steps to take. ■ Slow down, and pull into the right lane. Turn on the heat in the car and open the windows. This may draw heat out of the engine block, while maintaining a slow pace can continue to draw air over the engine. ■ Pull over and open the hood to allow the engine to cool. ■ Top off the radiator with coolant. Water can also work in a pinch. ■ Take frequent breaks during long road trips to allow the engine to cool down for at least 15 minutes. ■ Be sure to clear the radiator from obstructions, includ-
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On the road again
MetroCreative
Once the weather warms up, the lure of a road trip is often too strong for many adventurous motorists to resist. Those who want to get away from it all and enjoy the minutiae of the trip often take to the road in short jaunts or extensive sightseeing vacations. For road-trippers, it’s often about the drive itself more so than the destination. There’s something appealing about hitting the open road and seeing the sights you would otherwise if traveling by air. Thanks to displeasure with customer service and rising prices for commercial flights, a growing number of travelers are taking to the road, as is evidenced by the number of cars on the highways. Often affordable when done correctly, the road trip is ideal for cashstrapped families or singletons looking to vacation on a budget. * Make a plan. Although part of the mystique of the road trip is traveling at will, travelers who want to maintain some control over their travels should set a course of travel that inlcudes both lodging and restaurant locations. It pays to know where gas stations are, including ones that stay open for 24 hours. Running out of fuel can quickly spoil a road trip. * Clean the car before departing. Chances are, road-trippers will acquire maps, fast food wrappers, discarded cups, and other paraphernalia while on the road. Starting out with a
Your automotive headquarters.
A road trip is an ideal way to see the sights of the country without the stress of air travel. vehicle already overrun with junk can make traveling a drag. Clean the car before departing for the road, and continue to do so periodically during the
How often to change motor oil? Grand Forks Herald/Friday, April 15, 2011
trip. * Mix highways with local roads. What’s the fun of taking a road trip if all that’s seen is a sea of cars going 65 mph? Be sure to travel on slow-going local routes in addition to highway driving to mix up the trip and ensure the best opportunities for taking in scenery. * Delegate tasks well. Find out who in the car reads maps well, is good at choosing tourist spots, makes meal decisions, and all the other necessities of the trip. Play toward people’s strengths, which will make for a more enjoyable trip. * Get documents in order. Don’t forget to bring along an updated insurance card, license, registration, and any other necessities. Getting pulled over in an unfamiliar locale is never fun, but it can be less stressful if you know all of your documents are on hand and up to date. Inspect documents well in advance of the trip to allow for replacements to be sent if need be.
MetroCreative
Much confusion or misinformation exists about how often drivers need to change their vehicle’s motor oil. Though it pays to change motor oil to keep the engine operating optimally, such changes don’t need to be done as often as the average driver thinks. As engines have become smaller, more fuel-efficient, longer-lasting, and better for the environment, engine maintenance guidelines have changed. And motor oils have changed as well. There are additives to help reduce engine wear and maintain the oil’s viscosity, and detergents in today’s motor oils help wash engine parts and prevent sludge from forming. For years the 3,000 mile oil change interval has
OIL: See Page 10
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been the standard practice. While this may have been adequate for older cars and less advanced motor oils, today’s vehicles can actually go much longer between oil changes. Drivers looking to prolong oil changes can turn to their owner’s manual for the suggested oil change schedule for the make and model. Many have guidelines depending on how often a motorist drives his or her vehicle. Those that routinely drive through muddy or dusty areas may want to change their oil more frequently. Others may be able to change the oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Drivers should not be scared off by the look of their oil. The detergents
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Grand Forks Herald/Friday, April 15, 2011
Don’t be blind to the problem of sun glare while driving MetroCreative
Snowy weather and icy roads may create their share of automobile accidents, but sun glare can be a hazard that few people anticipate. There are certain driving hazards that people often expect when getting behind the wheel, including slippery roads, an animal darting out or reduced visibility due to driving rains. But sun glare may not be something drivers expect to contribute to hazardous conditions. Sun glare can be a nuisance and make for dangerous driving, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is low on the horizon. The angle of the rays may render sun visors useless. Accidents due to sun glare do occur and more frequently than drivers may know. In October 2007, sun glare was responsible for at least two accidents in Colorado. In the first few months of 2010, data compiled by the Abu Dhabi Traffic Department showed the sun’s glare was blamed for 22 minor crashes. Sun glare is a problem all around the world. To prevent sun glare from becoming a hazard when you’re driving, consider these safety tips. ■ Delay driving times to occur before or after sunrise or sunset. ■ Use polarized sunglasses that can help prevent glare. ■ Do not use high-gloss products on the dashboard, which can contribute to extra glare. ■ Keep the inside and outside of the windshield clean. ■ Make use of sun visors. ■ If glare is a problem, leave extra space between your car and others in the event of sudden stopping or other road hazards. ■ Drive slowly and be mindful of obstructions. ■ Try taking another route that goes in a different direction than the one from which the sun is shining. ■ Leave extra time so that you don’t feel rushed getting to your destination. ■ Eye exams or surgery can make eyes more sensitive to the sunlight. Avoid driving after these appointments.
OIL/
Continued from Page 9 and additives in motor oil are created to suspend debris in the oil so it doesn’t foul up engine parts. Therefore, the oil may look darker. This does not necessarily indicate that the oil needs to be changed more frequently. Stick to the schedule in the manual. Individuals seeking confirmation that they can go longer durations between oil changes can have a motor oil analysis done. This will confirm the quality of the oil after having driven a certain amount of miles. The 3,000 mile oil change interval is no longer the industry standard thanks to advancements in both engine and motor oil technology. Chances are most vehicles can go longer between oil changes and still continue to drive well.
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Use polarized sunglasses to help protect against sun glare.
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April is National Car Care Month
Car Care Council
National Car Care Month in April is the time of year to give your car some extra attention. Basic maintenance can go a long way toward improving the safety and dependability of your vehicle, plus it helps avoid costly repairs down the road. “Neglected vehicle care almost always means much higher costs down the line in the form of more extensive repairs or lost resale value,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “Chances are if you own a car, it needs some work. National Car Care Month in April is the perfect time to focus on your vehicle’s maintenance needs.” Results of community car care events held throughout the country in 2010 show that most consumers are neglecting their cars, with seven out of 10 vehicles failing at least one component of the vehicle inspection process. (For a complete list of results, visit www.carcare.org/NCCM.) “These results show that the majority of vehicle owners could save money by being more proactive when it comes to their vehicle,” White said. “Whether you do it yourself or take your car to a professional service technician, make sure your car is ready for the spring and summer travel season.” The Car Care Council recommends 10 basic maintenance procedures to keep your car operating at its best: ■ Check the oil, filters and fluids. Oil should be checked at every fill-up and changed per the owner’s manual recommended intervals. Brake, transmission, power steering, coolant and windshield washer fluids should also be checked regularly. Your car’s filters, including those for the transmission, fuel system and interior ventilation, need regular inspection and replacement. ■ Inspect hoses at each oil change and have them replaced when leaking, brittle, cracked, rusted, swollen or restricted. Check V-belts and serpentine belts for looseness and condition, and have them replaced when cracked, frayed, glazed or showing signs of excessive wear. Typically replace the timing belt between 60,000 and 90,000 miles or the interval specified in the owner’s manual to avoid a breakdown or se-
rious engine damage. ■ Check the engine brake system every year and have the brake linings, rotors and drums inspected at each oil change. ■ Check that the battery connection is clean, tight and corrosion-free. The battery should be securely mounted. If it is three years old or more, the battery should be tested and replaced if necessary. ■ 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. ■ Schedule a tune-up that will help the engine deliver the best balance of power and fuel economy and produce the lowest level of emissions. ■ Check the car’s 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. ■ Inspect the steering and suspension system annually, including shock absorbers and struts, and chassis parts, such as ball joints, tie rod ends and other related components. ■ Check the pressure of all tires, including the spare, at least once a month. Check the tread for uneven or irregular wear and cuts and bruises along the sidewalls. Have your car’s alignment checked at least annually to reduce tire wear and improve fuel economy and handling. ■ Test exterior and interior lights and have bulbs that are not working checked immediately. Replace windshield wiper blades every six months or when cracked, cut, torn, streaking or chattering for optimum wiping performance and safety.
COOLING SYSTEM SPECIALISTS
Car washing dos and don’ts
Grand Forks Herald/Friday, April 15, 2011
MetroCreative
Car enthusiasts will tell you that one of the best ways to maintain that new car look is to keep up with a frequent washing schedule. Removing road grime and other plagues of automotive paint on a routine basis keeps a car looking its best. There are some rules of the road when maintaining the exterior of a vehicle to ensure the finish remains in pristine condition. Keep in mind these dos and don’ts. DO use products specifically designed for automobiles. Household cleansers may be good at removing dirt, but they may also strip off the protective wax on the car. DON’T wash the car while it is hot, after it’s been sitting out in the sun a while or directly after it’s been driven. The warmth can cause the water and soap to dry faster, leaving unsightly deposits. DO wash off dead insects, road salt, mud, etc., as soon as possible. Otherwise these substances may stick to the paint and cause erosion. DON’T assume the rain will clean the car. In areas with acid rain, it’s actually essential to rinse a vehicle off after it rains to prevent damage. DO move the sponge lengthwise along the vehicle. Swirling the sponge may cause tiny scratches.
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Removing road grime and other plagues of automotive paint on a routine basis keeps a car looking its best.
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Save money on car repair with these four questions 12
Make sure vehicle lights shine bright for safe spring driving
Grand Forks Herald/Friday, April 15, 2011
Car Care Council
Automotive technicians are often compared to doctors. This comparison undoubtedly makes some techs smile and others grimace. But in the end, the two professions have a lot in common. It may surprise consumers to find that by choosing these professionals wisely, they can get better care at a better price. When it comes to choosing a repair shop, many experts extol the virtues of the clean facility, a wall adorned with ASE certificates or a coffee pot and some tasty snacks. While these items are important, these four vital questions tell most of the story: 1) Will the service advisor or tech take time to listen to your description of the car’s problem? 2) Can they explain things to you in laymen’s terms? 3) If necessary, will they testdrive the car with you? 4) Do they have the knowledge and equipment to diagnose and repair it the first time? Back to the doctor/technician comparison. Some doctors are great diagnosticians. They can pin point a malady when their peers are coming up with
empty charts. What’s the difference between that doctor and the people wearing white coats? Possibly his/her knowledge and perhaps equipment, but probably it’s listening skills that sets the really great docs apart from the good ones. When choosing a professional, the variety that looks after your car or the variety that looks after your body, ask them the four-questions. In effect, audition them. See how the doctor takes care of your flu and how the tech deals with an oil change before visiting with something more serious. Watch how they handle their time and be aware of how much time is allotted to you. Are they tuned into your problems and asking relevant questions? Are they providing an objective opinion based on information they’ve garnered during your discussion? Can they explain the problem and solution to you in laymen’s terms? The bottom line is this time is money. The less time these people are willing to spend on the front end often multiplies the amount of time needed on the back end. In the case of both the doctor and tech, the extra time spent having to fix you or your car a second or
third time not only is expensive, it can be detrimental to the car or patient’s condition. Most regions are teeming with automotive professionals (and doctors, too) who are trained to listen, learn, test and correctly repair your vehicle (or body) the first time. By working with a great shop, over the course of time you can save endless hours and cash. And here’s an added bonus, patronizing these professionals and telling your friends means that more folks can enjoy and benefit from their outstanding business methods. The Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” campaign, educating consumers about the benefits of regular vehicle maintenance and repair. For more information visit www.carcare.org.
Hitting a pothole can damage tires, wheels, steering and suspension, wheel alignment and more. The Car Care Council recommends that motorists who experience any of the following warning signs after hitting a pothole should have a professional technician at their local repair shop inspect the vehicle. ■ Loss of control, swaying when making routine turns, bottoming-out on city streets or bouncing excessively on rough roads. These are indicators that the steering and suspension may have been damaged. The steering and suspension are key safety-related systems.
Together, they largely determine your car’s ride and handling. ■ Pulling in one direction, instead of maintaining a straight path, and uneven tire wear. These symptoms mean there’s an alignment problem. Proper wheel alignment is important for the lifespan of tires and helps ensure safe handling. ■ Low tire pressure, bulges or blisters on the sidewalls, or dents in the rim. These problems will be visible and should be checked out as soon as possible as tires are the critical connection between your car and the road in all sorts of driving conditions.
Spring is here and its arrival means warmer weather, more hours of daylight and spring break travel. Making sure your headlights are in proper working order should be a top priority before hitting the road this spring, says the Car Care Council. “Many motorists think to check their vehicle’s lights in fall or winter when the days are shorter, but checking lighting before the spring and summer driving season is just as important,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “Better weather and longer days mean more driving and longer trips, often after dark. Lights play a major role in safe driving, as the chance of an accident increases if you can’t see or be seen.” Lights are normal wear items that require periodic inspection and replacement. The lighting system provides nighttime visibility, signals and alerts other drivers, and supplies light for viewing instruments and the vehicle’s interior. From the driver’s seat you may not notice a light that
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isn’t working, so be sure to inspect your car’s lights at every oil change. At the same time, inspect and replace wiper blades so you can see clearly when driving during spring showers. In addition to replacing dimming, rapidly blinking and non-functioning lights, the following tips can help keep you safe: ■ Keep headlights, tail lights and signal lights clean. External dirt and debris can dim operational lights from being seen by others. ■ Make sure that your headlights are properly aimed. Miss-aimed headlights blind other drivers and reduce your ability to see the road. ■ Don’t overdrive your headlights; you should be able to stop inside the illuminated area, otherwise you are creating a blind crash area in front of your vehicle. ■ If there is any doubt on whether or not your headlights should be on, turn them on. Lights not only help you see better in early twilight, they also make it easier for other drivers to see you.
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