Tips For Simple Auto Maintenance

    BLOOMINGDALE, Ill.--Oct. 10, 2002--October is National Car Care Month and there's no need to stall when it comes to auto maintenance. Firestone Tire & Service Centers offer the following "Top 10 Tips for Great Car Care" to help drivers easily maintain safer, smoother-running vehicles.

    1. Read the Owner's Manual
    Most things a driver needs to know about maintaining a vehicle can be found in the owner's manual, typically found in the glove box of the car.

    2. Maintain Fluids
    There are six main fluids to check and maintain: windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, engine oil, engine coolant/antifreeze, transmission fluid and power steering fluid. Typically engine oil should be changed every three months or 3,000 miles. Other fluids can be checked at that time as well.

    3. Inflate
    Use an accurate tire gauge to check tire inflation every month. Under normal conditions, tires can lose up to one psi (pound per square inch) per month. Inflation guidelines for each tire are indicated in the vehicle owner's manual or inside the driver-side doorjamb - avoid going by the numbers printed on the tire, use the guidelines specific to the vehicle.

    4. Rotate
    Regular tire rotation, alignment and balancing can help tires last longer and provide a smoother, safer ride. For maximum mileage, rotate tires every 5,000 miles.

    5. Evaluate
    Routinely look for signs of tire tread wear and damage. Here's a simple tread wear depth check: place a penny in the tire groove with Abe Lincoln's head upside down. If you can see the tip of Lincoln's head, the treads are worn and need replacing.

    6. "Tune In" To Tune-Ups
    One of the most important things you can do to keep your car running smoothly is to take it in for periodic engine service scheduled tune-ups. Your vehicle manufacturer's scheduled maintenance program contains a detailed service schedule that names exactly what needs to be done and when.

    7. Give Your Brakes a Brake
    Low or contaminated brake fluid can cause brake failure. This fluid deteriorates over time and becomes contaminated. While vehicle manufacturers may not specify a maintenance interval, it's generally recommended that it be flushed at brake reline intervals.

    8. Out Like A Light
    Many motorists forget that car maintenance includes making sure all interior and exterior lights are in good working order. Have them checked when your car's oil is changed. Fun fact: there are more lights in the average vehicle than in your home!

    9. Use Your Senses
    A keen sense of sight, smell or hearing can help identify automotive problems. Watch for leaks under the car, or steam or smoke coming from the engine. Pay attention to dashboard warning lights - don't ignore them. Many fluids have their own unique odor; an unusual smell may mean a leak.
    Noises also are a good indicator of problems with a vehicle. Be sure to accurately describe noises to a service technician. Observe as many things as possible: When is it happening? At what speed? Is the vehicle braking or accelerating, turning left or right, is the car hot or cold, etc.?

    10. Stay Educated
    Firestone Tire & Service Centers around the country offer free copies of vehicle manufacturer's scheduled maintenance programs and free Car Care Clinics hosted by automotive specialists. Visit www.MasterCareUSA.com to find upcoming Clinic locations, schedule appointments or to sign up for free maintenance reminders.

    Firestone Tire & Service Centers are owned and operated by BFS Retail & Commercial Operations, LLC (BFRC). BFRC operates the largest number of company owned full-line automotive retail generalist stores in the world. MasterCare(R) technicians perform part repairs and replacements, routine scheduled maintenance services, and a variety of diagnostic services covering every major system within a vehicle.