April is National Car Care Month

248 views · Published 11 April 2013 · 1:56 · Indexed 29 October 2026

Channel: Car Coach Reports · 2013 · Autos & Vehicles

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How long has it been since you lifted the hood of your car? If you're like most of us, it's been too long. Studies show that nine out of ten vehicles on the road have something wrong with them. As April is National Car Care Month, YNN's Car Coach Lauren Fix tells us what we need to check-up on.

Finding a free Car Care Month check-up lane can help you find out what is wrong with your ride. It might be something simple or a problem that can cost you money at the pump. It may even affect your safety. This April, take the time to be Car Care Aware.

UNDERHOOD CHECKS - Raise the hood of your car and become familiar with the fluid reservoirs, belts and hoses.

COOLING SYSTEM - Here's a quick way to destroy an engine- just run it too hot. Aluminum components can warp as a result of excessive heat; have your cooling system serviced now.

DON'T OVERLOOK THESE BOOTS - A term familiar to many owners of front-wheel drive vehicles is the CV joint (short for constant velocity joint). This flexible joint transfers power from the transmission to the wheels and is protected by a rubber boot, which keeps grease in and dirt out. Have these boots checked the next time you're in for service or getting your oil checked.

WINDSHIELD WIPERS - What's one of the first things that need to be replaced
on your car? The windshield wiper blades. More often than not, windshield wiper blades deteriorate due to exposure. Sun, chemicals, and even industrial pollution affect wiper blades. Replace streaking or chattering wiper blades.

BRAKES - How do you save money on brake work? Not by skimping. A "bargain brake job" is seldom a real bargain. Invest in the best brake service available and practice preventive maintenance, including periodic inspection of brake components, to stay ahead of excessive wear of rotors and drums.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - When your car overheats it can damage the engine, radiator and automatic transmission. Read early signs of damage from overheating by checking the vehicle's transmission fluid.

Taking an active role in maintaining your vehicle is the best way to avoid costly repairs down the road. The non-profit Car Care Council will help you learn how. This April, look for free car care check-up events to see if your car passes the test.

Courtesy of YNN/Time Warner Cable
Aired: 4/02/2013

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