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Show Fall CAR CARE, 2011 Page 4 Winter From page 2 "Also check to see if your spark plugs and battery need replacing. You don't want to have a stalled vehicle in the dead of winter," advises a "Preparing For Winter" online advisory from Mr. Lube Canada at mrlube.com, the Important to keep your fluids up In Oct. 2005, the Car Care Council held a voluntary inspection campaign for motorists in conjunction with their Fall Car Care month. Many participating vehicles failed basic maintenance goals. Here's a look at the results: Lubricants and fluids Engine oil Transmission fluid Brake fluid Power steering fluid Coolant (flush) Washer fluid Coolant (low surge tank) Coolant (low radiator) Coolant (leaks) Failure rate* 30% 26% 23% 21 0/0 20% 18% 16% MI 11% - 80/0 *Failure = low, overfull, dirty, contaminated and/or burnt fluids ■ Low fluid levels can affect the safe driving performance of the vehicle and damage internal parts if not properly maintained. ■ The cooling system protects against damage by keeping the engine operating within its correct temperature ranges. SOURCE: Car Care Council Copley News Service / Paul Horn Canadian chain of franchised auto service centers. "If your battery is more than two years old, take it to your technician to have the charging system completely checked. Older batteries are less likely to start in winter temperatures than newer ones." Since cold weather magnifies existing performance problems, you should take the time now to eyeball fuel, air and transmission filters -- or, even better, get a complete tuneup. An inspection of brakes and tires should also be on your must-do list. It's also a good time to have the car waxed to protect the finish from the elements. If you live in an area subject to sub-zero weather or heavy snow and ice, switch to lighter motor oil for easier start-ups and less wear and tear on the engine. You may also want to replace your regular wipers with a rubber-clad winter version that prevents the snow and ice from clogging the blades. While all-weather tires work well in any climate, if your streets are filled with ice and snow, shift to studded snow tires. — Vicky Katz Whitaker, Creators Syndicate Putting the brakes on auto sales With the economy grinding to a halt, vehicle sales have declined as well. Here's a look at how cars have sold in recent years: NEW MOTOR VEHICLE SALES 1990 - 2007 In thousands, includes leases Creators.com / Eri Hashimoto mnon Ready cg7G: Most Vehicles •Wiper Blade Replacement •30 pt. Vehicle check • Battery check 'Fluid Check & Top off TIRES • SERVICE STRAIGHT TALK I.111 Service Includes: •Tire rotation & air check •0i1 &Filter Change (5-qt) •Fluid Top-Off •Brake Inspection •Lube Chassis •30 pt. Vehicle check 'Check Belts and Hoses 'Check Charging System aummmmwpr BIG a Tones THE TEAM YOU TRUST 240 East 1400 North, Logan 435-752-4622 www.bigotires.com Service Includes: •Tire rotation & air check •Oil &Filter Change (5 qt) 'Fluid Top-Off •Brake Inspection •Lube Chassis •30 pt. Vehicle check •Check Belts and Hoses •Check Charging System - |