Car Care Council Asks: Is Your Vehicle Car Pool Ready?

BETHESDA, Md., Aug. 2, 2011 It's that time of year again -- time to get the kids ready to go back to school. It's also time to make sure your car is ready for the wear and tear of car pool driving. The Car Care Council reminds parents to make sure their vehicles are in A+ condition to transport their most precious cargo to and from school.

"A properly maintained car is safer and more dependable, and that's extra important when your passengers are your children and their classmates," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. "A preventive maintenance checkup before car pool season will give you a chance to inspect the vehicle and have repairs made before the school bell rings."

The Car Care Council recommends that the following items be checked before school begins:

• Tires and tire pressure
• Hoses and belts
• Air filters
• Wipers
• Exterior and interior lighting
• Fluid levels, including engine oil, power steering, brake, transmission, windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant

In addition, a 21st century tune-up should also be performed to make sure the following systems are in proper working condition: battery, charging and starting; engine mechanical; power train control; fuel; ignition; and emissions. To learn more, view the Car Care Council's "21st Century Tune-Up" video and other Car Care Minutes on the council's website at For a copy of the council's Car Care Guide or for more information, visit Car Care Council.

The Car Care Council also recommends that parents, especially those driving longer distances to and from school, keep a roadside emergency kit in their vehicles that includes items such as flares, a first-aid kit, a tire-changing jack, a tire pressure gauge, jumper cables and a blanket.

About the Car Care Council

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. For a copy of the council's Car Care Guide or for more information, visit Car Care Council.