Protect the Environment and Your Wallet By Maintaining Vehicle Emission System

BETHESDA, Md., April 14 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Your car's emission system keeps the engine running cleanly and efficiently in all sorts of operating conditions, and keeping it in proper working condition can save money and protect the environment, according to the Car Care Council.  

Emission systems control a vehicle's emissions, exhaust and pollutants using an array of sensors, computerized engine controls and the exhaust components. Emission systems substantially reduce harmful gases such as carbon monoxide (CO), unburned hydrocarbons (HC) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx), and prevent harmful gasoline vapors from escaping at the fuel tank.  

A flashing light indicates a current problem with the emission system that may require immediate attention. Failure to do so can reduce your mileage per gallon of fuel or cause your vehicle to pollute.

Typical causes of wear and tear on emission systems:

• Driving and atmospheric conditions.
• Mileage.
• Vehicle age.
• Type of spark plug electrode material.
• Maintenance history.
• Poor spark.
• Bad fuel.
• Damaged or worn sensors.

"Good fuel economy, performance and low emissions are all interrelated for an efficiently operating engine," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. "A properly maintained emission system is a key part of that equation. Check your vehicle owner's manual for specific recommendations on how to care for your car's emission system."

For tips on keeping your emission system healthy, visit www.carcare.org.

About the Car Care Council:

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

SOURCE Car Care Council