Focus on Your Vehicle Investment During National Car Care Month in April

2009 Community Car Care Events Reveal 80 Percent Failure Rate

BETHESDA, MD - March 30, 2010: National Car Care Month (NCCM) in April is the perfect time for motorists to learn about the very real economic benefits of performing regular vehicle maintenance, according to the Car Care Council.

"Each year, community car care events routinely identify that consumers are not taking proper care of their vehicles," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. "Neglected vehicle care almost always means much higher costs down the line, either in the form of more extensive repairs or lost resale value."

In 2009, results of community car care events throughout the country showed that consumers are neglecting their cars, with eight out of 10 vehicles failing at least one component of the vehicle inspection process. Even with an estimated 20 percent more vehicles inspected in 2009, the overall failure rate remained unchanged from 2008 and 2007.

Of the vehicles checked, 27 percent were found to have low, overfull or dirty engine oil, which can affect vehicle performance and damage internal parts if not properly maintained. Low, leaky or dirty coolant in the radiator or surge tank was identified in 26 percent of the inspected vehicles. Cooling system protects against damage by keeping the engine operating within the correct temperature range.

One out of every two belts was reported as unsatisfactory in the vehicles inspected (51 percent) and 10 percent of the vehicles required at least one new hose. Roadside breakdowns can be avoided by motorists periodically checking their belts and hoses and replacing them when worn. For a complete list of results, visit http://carcare.org/NCCM.

"These results show that the majority of vehicle owners could save money by being proactive in the maintenance of their second largest investment," White said. "Whether you do it yourself or take your car to a professional service technician, National Car Care Month in April is the perfect time to focus on your vehicle's maintenance needs to make sure it is ready for the upcoming spring and summer travel season."

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.