Car Care Council:Ten-Minute Stress Buster-Trip Preparation

BETHESDA, Md., Aug. 29 -- Threats of war with Iraq have gasoline prices rising. While paying more at the pump shouldn't dampen Labor Day road trips, the thought of a highway breakdown can cause anxiety. To avoid being stranded on the road, the Car Care Council recommends a simple 10-minute driveway inspection of the family vehicle.

"Consumer research shows that motorists are most concerned with safety and dependability when it comes to their vehicles on any given day," said Rich White, spokesman for the council. "However, when driving with the family over the long Labor Day weekend, these concerns are compounded."

Most mechanical failures can be traced to neglected maintenance. For example, the U.S. Department of Transportation reports the leading cause of mechanical breakdown on our nation's highways is overheating, a condition that is easily avoidable. Other deficiencies that are simple to detect include low antifreeze/coolant, worn or loose drive belts and defective cooling system hoses.

"Checking tire pressure and inflating a tire costs nothing, yet an average of 21 percent of cars inspected in check lanes during National Car Care Month have under inflated tires. This can lead to a blowout and a serious accident," White said.

Car Care Council offers three suggestions for a traveler's 10-minute pre- trip checklist:

* Check all fluids. There are several fluids, in addition to antifreeze, that require attention, including engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission fluids and windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant.

* Check hoses and belts. A belt that fails can affect the electrical system, air conditioning and power steering, as well as the cooling system. Cooling system hoses may be deteriorating from within, so old hoses and clamps in marginal condition might need to be replaced.

* Check the tires. Check tire inflation and inspect the tread for uneven wear, indicating the need for wheel alignment. Also look for bulges and bald spots.

"While a last minute checkup is better than no checkup, motorists should plan ahead to allow time to perform necessary maintenance themselves or at the local service facility. A properly maintained vehicle is safer and more dependable and will even save a few dollars at the gas pumps," White said.

The Car Care Council is the source of information for the "Be Car Care Aware" consumer education campaign on behalf of the automotive aftermarket industry. The purpose of the campaign is to provide consumers with timely and accurate information about the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair.