Check Engine Light

America’s growing obsession with younger looking faces evidenced by the Botox craze, is inspiring car owners to prolong the appearance of their automobiles as well. Four billion dollars were spent last year in the United States on enhancements to keep the interior and exterior of vehicles looking like new, according to the Car Care Council.

“As consumers spend more time in their vehicles and drive more miles each year, they are placing more importance on comfort, luxury and appearance,” said Rich White, spokesperson for the council.

The stalled car syndrome, more noticeable on our roadways than in our driveways, has been with us for generations. But it becomes more critical with increased population. Beyond missed appointments or being late for work it also results in the condition known as road rage. Not only can a disabled vehicle have an annoying "ripple effect" that goes beyond the immediate scene; it can be disastrous for the driver who is left vulnerable to roadside crime or to the elements.

It was among travelers’ worst nightmares and a very expensive trip for this motorist. His beloved pickup blew the engine and had to be towed 250 miles home. The temperature gauge didn’t work, nor did the check engine light. By the time he realized the engine was overheated the damage was done.

Loose gas caps, under inflated tires, faulty thermostats, worn spark plugs, malfunctioning engine controls, poor wheel alignment and the list goes on. These are among the conditions that daily cost consumers millions of dollars in wasted fuel.

The Car Care Council’s short Gas Saving 101 Quiz is a reminder to all motorists that the number of miles per gallon (mpg) a car gets is directly related to driving behavior and vehicle maintenance.  

“Motorists can very easily save money on gas by driving smarter, and keeping an eye on a few of the vehicle components that affect fuel economy,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council.  

TRUE OR FALSE

Q. 1 – Properly inflated tires improve gas mileage?  

Your car doesn’t want flowers, or balloons, or even candy this Valentine’s Day – it just wants a little love in the form of an oil change, tune-up and basic service. There’s no debating the value of preventive maintenance to keep your car running well – not to mention getting you safely to your hot Valentine’s Day date – according to the Car Care Council. This Valentine’s Day, treat your car to regular care and take the following preventive maintenance steps:

With no end in sight to rising gas prices, consumers should take control of how they drive their vehicle to get more miles per gallon. The Car Care Council recommends the following ways to drive smart and save money:

They’re back and they’re bad. Potholes have returned and hitting one with your car can do a number on tires, wheels, steering and suspension, and alignment. To help determine if hitting a pothole has damaged your vehicle, watch for the following warning signs provided by the Car Care Council.  

You’ve just made your last car payment. Should you keep the car or trade it in for a brand new vehicle? According to the Car Care Council, keeping your car rather than buying a new one is the way to go, especially if your goal is to save money.  

“People who keep their cars, treat them as valuable investments and commit to regular vehicle maintenance, end up saving a lot of money,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council.  

When Mother Nature casts a sparkling spell, turning the landscape into a winter wonderland. It’s time to put your favorite ride away. Do you love your vehicle so much that we wouldn’t even think of driving it in the snow let alone in the rain? Many people are storing their dream cars, do you know the proper way to store your vehicle. Doing it right will save you expenses and aggravation later. These 8 steps will assist your auto to sleep better through the winter.