Don't Let Your Car Break Your Heart and Leave You Stranded

BETHESDA, Md., Feb. 10, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- By giving your vehicle a little more attention now, you'll avoid the heartbreak and unplanned expense of car trouble down the road. The non-profit Car Care Council recommends a little tender loving auto care this Valentine's Day and beyond.

• Check the battery and replace if necessary. Make sure the connection is clean, tight and corrosion-free.
• Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.
• Check the hoses and belts to make sure they are not cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or showing signs of excessive wear.
• Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission, as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant.
• Check engine performance to make sure the engine delivers the best balance of power and fuel economy, and produces the lowest level of emissions.
• Check the steering and suspension system annually including shock absorbers, struts and chassis parts such as ball joints, tie rod ends and other related components.

"Don't let your car break your heart by neglecting to take care of it," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. "Being car care aware can add years of useful life to your relationship with your vehicle and keep you from being stranded because of an unexpected breakdown."

The Car Care Council has a free custom service schedule to help make vehicle ownership more enjoyable, economical and convenient so you can keep your relationship with your car on track.

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 free copy of the council's popular Car Care Guide or for more information, visit www.carcare.org.

SOURCE Car Care Council

Related Links

http://www.carcare.org