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by Lynne Keller


Anytime of year can be the right time to get your car in tip-top shape. According to experts, they believe that a good crew can make the difference between having your car running in optimal conditions or just running. Remembering that not all auto repair technicians are created equal is important because of this.

Before you hit the road, it is therefore recommended that you have a trained technician take care of the details and inspect the following.

Tire pressure. About 20 percent of cars inspected in check lanes during National Car Care Month have underinflated tires, which can result in blowouts and serious accidents. The leading cause of tire failure is underinflation. In addition, low tire pressure can reduce gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent.

Don't forget the wipers. Generally, wipers should be replaced every six months, ideally in the spring and fall, making now the perfect time to take a look at them. Another thing you should do is make sure the windshield washers work properly and keep the washer fluid reservoir full.

Lubricants and Fluids. Nearly 30 percent of vehicles failed inspections as a result of too little, too much or dirty motor oil, and 26 percent had low, overfull or burnt transmission fluid. Twenty-one percent had low or dirty power steering fluid, 23 percent had low or contaminated brake fluid, and 18 percent failed the washer fluid inspection. Affecting your vehicle's safety are improper fluid levels and this can also damage vehicle components.

What about the Parts? Having items such as belts as well as hoses regularly inspected and replaced with the right parts when needed is very important. Genuine GM replacement parts, for example, are manufactured to the same specifications of the company's vehicles. If there is a ruptured hose or a broken belt, then this can cause costly engine damage and travel delays.

Experts recommend that regular vehicle maintenance and inspections can help improve a vehicle's fuel efficiency, achieve peak performance and even help avoid major repairs down the road.

For instance, according to federal statistics, only about half of the 820,000 auto service technicians in the U.S. are certified by ASE, an industry-recognized leader in technician certification.

These technicians are prepped to maintain and repair GM vehicles with a full line of products for one-stop service at over 7,000 GM dealership locations nationwide.




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