Replace Wiper Blades for Safety

Are you tired of smearing, screeching and chattering wiper blades? Do you dread another rainy drive without the benefit of an unobstructed view of the road? Buy a set of wiper blades and install them yourself. It takes only a few minutes, and simple instructions are right on the box.

Before you begin, here are two suggestions:

• You can make the wiper blade more accessible by stopping it in the most convenient location with the ignition key. Don’t use the wiper on-off switch, as it causes the wipers to stop in their parked position.


• Look for replacement rubber squeegees to avoid the cost of buying the entire blade and holder. They’re usually easily installed and can restore wiping action, as long as the rest of the components are OK.

15 percent of the vehicles passing through check lanes during National Car Care Month failed because of worn windshield wiper blades. The normal life expectancy of the rubber squeegee is six to 12 months. That’s reason enough to learn to do it yourself.

"Bells & Whistles" Enhance Your Bland Vehicle

As they make the rounds to select their new vehicle, many shoppers recoil at sticker prices. With cars now averaging well above $20,000, some buyers reevaluate their needs and desires, reluctantly settling for the no-frills, "plain vanilla" model.


With time, however, these same motorists may find themselves with a few extra dollars they can invest in their vehicle. Is it time to buy another car, even though there still are payments to make?


The Car Care Council says instead of replacing your vehicle, consider repairing and upgrading what you already have.


The accompanying list includes some of the accessories that can add new personality to your basic vehicle. Most of the products in the $24+ billion customizing/accessory industry are totally functional (SEMA 2001); some combine function with cosmetic improvement.


The cost of these components ranges from a few dollars to a few thousand. Still you could have most of them installed for much less than the price of a new vehicle. A classified phone directory or a referral from your automotive service dealer are two good ways to find your local sources.
So if you're considering trading, crunch the numbers first. You might find you'd be just as happy, and many dollars richer, with a few selected enhancements.



Vehicle Personality Enhancement List

• 
  Air dams and spoilers


• Anti-theft devices


• Bug deflectors


• Camper caps


• Car phones


• Carrier racks


• Custom seats


• Custom wheels


• Grille guards


• Instrumentation


• Keyless entry systems


• Neon trim lighting


• Personal breath alcohol testers


• Pick-up bed mats


• Pick-up box tonneau covers


• RV and towing accessories


• Radar Detectors


• Remote engine starting systems


• Running boards


• Special shock absorbers


• Stereo systems Striping and/or decals


• Sun roofs


• Vehicle navigation systems


• Wheels & tires


• Window tinting

High Water Headaches

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), floods are one of the most common and widespread of all disasters. Most communities in the United States have experienced some level of flooding from high water due to spring rains, heavy thunderstorms or winter snow thaws. While your vehicle may not have been flooded or completely covered in water, that doesn’t necessarily mean that you should not be concerned about water damage. If you drove through high water, there’s a chance that you may have damaged your vehicle. It all comes down to how much water the vehicle took in and where it reached. Follow these guidelines to check for damage due to water intrusion or contamination.

• Check interior carpets, upholstery and door and trim panels for dampness. If they are wet then the vehicle will need professional attention. If all you do is let the carpet dry, you will quickly be rewarded by mildew and nasty odors. Seat brackets, motors and modules should also be checked for rust and proper operation.
  
• Pull the engine oil and transmission fluid dipsticks and differential plug. If the fluid appears milky, diluted, is no longer its original color or is beige in color, then it is likely the pans contain water. The vehicle should be towed to your ASE certified mechanic or repair shop. Driving the vehicle with water present may damage the internal parts and require extensive overhaul or repairs. (NOTE: Some new synthetic differential fluids may appear to be milky but are not water contaminated, when in doubt let a professional make the evaluation.)
• Check the air filter for water. If it is wet, replace the air filter and change the oil.
• Check the undercarriage, bumpers, radiator area and frame for mud, grass, dirt, debris and rust. If any of these are present have the vehicle washed and cleaned as soon as possible.
• Have the brake system checked by a professional.
• Check the exterior lights for moisture and water. Replace headlights and bulbs that contain water.
• Listen for abnormal noises while the engine is running. Make a note of where the noise is coming from and take the vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible. Pay particular attention to the alternator, serpentine belt, starter, power steering unit, air conditioner and wheel bearings.
• Inspect the suspension joints and lubricate as necessary. Many newer vehicles are lubricated at the factory for life; however, these joints should be checked for rust.

By being car care aware and following these simple guidelines, you can help minimize the potential for damage to your vehicle.