- February 12, 2019
- By Derek Anderson
- In Belts, Brakes, Diagnostics, Engine, Filters, Heating, Oils, Steering, Suspension, Tires, Transmission
- 2515
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Winter driving conditions can be quite dangerous, which means if you need to be outside, you should prepare yourself and your vehicle wisely. Remember that in winter weather, stopping is often the hard part, and it’s the tires that do the stopping. So take proper care of them. They are a critical part of the three-member team – your car, your tires, and you – that can get you through the winter safely if you follow the rules.
Service to maintain engine performance, sometimes known as a tune-up, keeps your engine working hand-in-hand with the rest of your car’s powertrain. This is how optimum car performance is achieved.
Remember when cars used to have at least several rubber belts under the hood? Called “fan” belts or drive belts, they’ve been replaced on most late model vehicles with a single, “serpentine” drive belt. Another belt under the hood of most cars is hidden under a cover at the front of the engine. It’s the timing belt, often overlooked during routine maintenance.
Results of vehicle inspections at community car care events across the country during National Car Care Month in April, and Fall Car Care Month in October, revealed that 80 percent of vehicles needed parts replacement, service or fluids. For example, nearly one out of every 10 vehicles had the check engine light on. The top problem areas were motor oil, windshield wipers, air filters, belts and hoses and lights.