You Know Your Car Needs an Inspection If …

…You haven’t changed your oil since Bush took office.
…You think belts are for pants and hoses are for gardens.
…You haven’t had your vehicle inspected since last year.
…You feel that gasoline is the only fluid your car really needs.
…You don’t own a tire gauge and are uncertain of its function.
…You wouldn’t bet a lottery ticket that all of your car’s exterior lights work.

Statistics from National Car Care Month check lanes show that the majority of motorists do not properly maintain their cars. In fact, nearly four cars of five in the check lanes failed inspection.

Fluids

Some of the highest failure rates were in the fluid category. Low fluid levels can affect the safe driving performance of the vehicle and damage internal parts if not properly maintained.

Belts and Hoses

Belts and hoses had over a 25% failure rate. Of course, many of today’s vehicles are operated on only one belt. So when it breaks, the car comes to a grinding halt. Often, it comes apart with such force that it ruins nearby components, as well.

Tires

Between tire pressure and worn tread, 19% of the vehicles failed the inspection. The need for correct tire pressure has received a great deal of attention recently. However, 13% of the motorists apparently were unconvinced of the role pressure plays in decreasing a tire’s life. This also is a culprit in decreased gas mileage. Inadequate tread depth, another common discrepancy can cause lost traction on wet or snowy roads.

Lighting

Lighting is the only way motorists have to communicate. However, 26% of the cars had some sort of lighting malfunction. No matter which exterior light is not working, motorists have a responsibility to repair it immediately.

Why not use our online appointment scheduler or call us at (301) 953-2886 to make an appointment for an oil change, filter and lube service and we will give you a free 21-point safety inspection if you mention this website.

Brought to you as a public service by the Car Care Council.

For more information please contact Gary Uhlman