| Put "Car Check" at top of Vacation Check List |
| Source: Car Care Council |
| In many families, the time leading up to a vacation is spent making a list and checking off items such as stop mail, turn off water, call kennel. However, an item that should be at the top of this list —check the car— is often overlooked. |
| The Car Care Council recommends you do the following before taking a road trip this summer. |
| Keep the gas tank at least half full. This helps control condensation inside the tank, keeping your fuel free of water. It may also save you from running out of gas in an unexpected traffic jam. |
| Change your air filter at recommended intervals. According to government statistics, a clogged air filter can cause up to a 10% increase in fuel consumption. |
| A dead battery is one of the most common reasons for a breakdown. Carry an auxiliary power source to boost a dead battery. |
| Tests have shown daytime lighting helps cut accident rates. If your vehicle is not equipped with headlights that turn on automatically, consider turning them on both day and night for optimum safety. |
| Use your parking brake every time you get out of your car. This good habit will come in handy in hilly terrain. |
| So before heading to the beach, the mountains or the theme park, consider that you and your family are only as safe as your vehicle. In addition to the above tips, take your vehicle to an ASA member shop to insure that your automobile can withstand a long road trip. |