April 1, 2016—April is National Car Care Month, and according to the Car Care Council, 80 percent of vehicles need service, new parts, or repair.
The Car Care Council reports that vehicles inspected at community car care events held throughout the country in 2015 failed one or more aspects of the inspection process. Some areas posting the highest failure rates include: low fluid levels (washer fluid 26 percent, engine oil 23 percent and coolant 19 percent); clogged or dirty air filters 19 percent; illuminated check engine light 13 percent; worn belts 13 percent; and needed battery service and wiper blade replacement 13 and 12 percent, respectively.
"With so many vehicles in need of service, National Car Care Month in April serves as an important reminder to take action today so you can depend on your vehicle down the road," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. "It's easy to postpone vehicle maintenance when things get busy, but don't put it off. Addressing minor service needs before they become major will help you avoid unexpected car trouble and unplanned costly repairs. Many maintenance needs are quick and inexpensive to resolve, so it's easy to make auto care a priority during National Car Care Month.”
For access to free tools, including the popular Car Care Guide and a customized service schedule with email reminders, visit carcare.org.
