How to Observe National Car Care Month

April is National Car Care Month. The effort began in Ohio in 1980 then expanded through the rest of the country in 1981. It's a chance for motorists to protect the environment by performing maintenance on their vehicles. Maintaining your car can reduce pollution, save you money and improve safety. Vehicles emit nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide. All are dangerous to people and the environment.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Check and change your vehicle's fluids. Low fluid levels can affect how safe your vehicle handles. The internal parts can also be damaged. This includes engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, washer fluid, coolant and power steering fluid.

2. Take a look at your belts and hoses. Roadside breakdowns can be avoided with this simple act. Replace them if they are worn.

3. Extend your tire life by checking the pressure. Low tire pressure will wear them out quicker and decrease gas mileage.

4. Flick on your lights and make sure they're all working. Check your brake lights, license plate lights, fog lights, head lights, blinkers and tail lights. All are essential in your ability to communicate with other drivers.

5. Improve your driving habits during National Car Care Month. This means slowing down, reducing idle time and driving smoothly. Make fewer trips and avoid potholes, too. All of these actions will improve your car's impact on the environment.

6. Download and print brochures about car care. Distribute them to friends and co-workers during National Car Care Month (see resources below).

Resources

• All about National Car Care Month
• National Safety Council information on Car Care Month
• Get brochures about car care here.

Who Can Help Sponsored