Auto Club Offers Motorists Five Simple Maintenance Tips
28 September 2000
Auto Club Offers Motorists Five Simple Maintenance Tips; Fuel Your Knowledge During October's Car Care Month
LOS ANGELES--Sept. 27, 2000--The Automobile Club of Southern California is urging motorists to "take five" during October's "Car Care Month" before the onset of cooler weather.More than recommending a pause in normal driving routines, the Auto Club suggests motorists take an hour or two in October to perform five key maintenance tasks that should be completed during the fall season. They are:
1. Check all fluid levels, vehicle lights and belts and hoses.
Refill, replace or adjust as necessary.
2. Replace windshield wiper blades if they are more than six
months old.
3. Change the oil if it has been more than six months or 5,000
miles since the last change. Older vehicles will require more
frequent oil changes.
4. Check to make sure the coolant has been flushed and changed as
recommended by the vehicle maintenance schedule.
5. Inspect and rotate tires and check brakes if it has been more
than 7,500 miles since this was last done.
"The best place to learn about preparing a vehicle for the fall and winter season is as near as the glove box," said Ed Lindsay, the Auto Club's Approved Auto Repair manager. "For specific maintenance information about the vehicle you drive, there is no more authoritative source than the owner's manual."
According to the Auto Club, vehicle maintenance schedules and practices have changed over the years, but one piece of common-sense advice remains true today. By taking the time to regularly assess the condition of your vehicle, you improve the chances of avoiding a safety problem down the road.
To help motorists find reliable mechanics, the Auto Club has certified more than 700 independent vehicle repair shops in Southern California as "Approved Auto Repair" (AAR) facilities. These auto shops, displaying the Auto Club's logo, undergo regular inspections and must maintain rigorous standards of service, use quality repair equipment and employ properly trained technicians.
To find the nearest AAR facility, visit www.aaa-calif.com on the Internet or a local Auto Club office.
