Free Vehicle Check-Ups to Mark National Car Care Month in April

SEE ALSO: Pre-Summer Car and Truck Maintenance.

BETHESDA, Md., March 12, 2007; Most people recognize April as tax time, but in the automotive repair industry, it's also the official time to celebrate National Car Care Month (NCCM) and the benefits of regular vehicle care and maintenance. To mark NCCM, automotive repair shops, parts stores, distributors and vocational schools throughout the country will offer free vehicle check-up events and car care aware fairs for consumers, according to the Car Care Council, the organization that spearheads the campaign.

During these events, automotive technicians check the vehicle's lubricants and fluids, windshield wipers, belts and hoses, the battery, tires and lighting. Many events also offer child safety seat inspections, blood pressure screenings, kids' activities and the chance to get your car washed and pick up some automotive-related literature, including the council's new Car Care Guide for consumers. If you don't attend a NCCM event or if the guide isn't available, single copies can be ordered on the council's Web site.

"It's up to the sponsors to decide what to offer, and many events end up being enjoyable for the whole family," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. "Consumers get an important understanding about the condition of their vehicle so they can avoid costly repairs down the road. In the process, everyone has fun, including the sponsors of the events."

Sponsoring businesses and organizations that reported their results to the Car Care Council in 2006 found that nearly nine out of 10 vehicles that were checked failed at least one component of the vehicle inspection process. Nearly 1,000 vehicle inspection forms from events in 16 states were tallied in 2006.

Many sponsors are in the final planning stages of their NCCM events, and will begin adding the dates and locations to the Car Care Council Web site in the next few weeks. The council suggests that motorists check with their repair facility to see if they plan to offer a vehicle check-up event or fair. Consumers may also regularly check the council's Web site, for a listing of local events.

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 to consumers.