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Automotive Expert’s Advice to Keep Cars Running Like New
GREENVILLE, S.C. - (May 01, 2009) - According to the U.S. Census data, over the past five years, the number of vehicles acquired by Hispanics has grown from 540,000 to 860,000.1 As an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)-certified mechanic, Ricardo Rodriguez-Long knows car maintenance and has partnered with Uniroyal® Tire to help make sure every dollar spent on one’s car is well spent. “Most cars today are designed to survive the neglect of the worst drivers. The majority of car parts should last at least five to six thousand miles without replacement,” said Rodriguez-Long. “By inspecting early, drivers can plan ahead for replacement.” In addition, drivers can check the battery, coolant levels, brakes and tires regularly. “Checking these items help avoid surprises when you go to have routine maintenance done,” he added. Rodriguez-Long wants drivers to know if they are trying to save money they can cut costs by inspecting their car every 10,000 miles for “physical” changes that may help them save down the road. “Most car manufacturers recommend having oil changes every 3,000 miles, but with the oil produced now, it’s possible to extend that deadline without damaging your car’s mechanical parts,” said Rodriguez-Long. “While changing your oil every 3,000 miles doesn’t harm your car, it doesn’t necessarily provide benefits, just added costs.” Every 5,000 miles drivers should replace their oil and oil filter. Every 15,000 drivers should replace the air filter, and rotate and balance their tires. Gas today is very well processed; therefore drivers will not find as much dirt in it. With this in mind, there should be no problem changing the fuel filter before 60,000 miles. Every 30 and 60,000 miles, drivers should replace their radiator coolant and transmission fluid. “Coolant, transmission fluid and brake fluid won’t lose their chemical composition for many years; changing these before 30,000 may be a bit overstated.” If it is needed, after 60,000 miles, replace the timing belt and spark plugs. Remember, there is no need to change parts until they reach the end of their lifespan. As an example, a tire that is 20 percent deflated (according to the recommended amount) wears much faster and increases the car’s gas consumption. Having a tire gauge on hand to check the tire pressure, as recommended in the driver’s manual or inside the door jamb, once a month may ensure safety and potentially save drivers’ money; checking on the small things will help save big in the long run as well as helping keep cars running like new for much longer. Please keep in mind that every car is different as well as their recommended maintenance schedules; drivers should use their best judgment when making decisions pertaining to their vehicles. For additional advice from Ricardo or to find your local Uniroyal Tire dealer, visit www.UniroyalTires.com/espanol. About Ricardo Rodriguez-Long: Rodriguez-Long, an ASE-certified mechanic, race car driver and former engine builder for the Toyota racing division, writes about cars and automotive trends for Spanish-language media and hosts the automotive radio program Auto a Fondo. He lives in California where he manages a truck dealership. About Uniroyal: Uniroyal Tire is one of the world's leading tire brands for passenger and commercial cars, pick-ups, light trucks, mini vans and sport utility vehicles. Dating back to 1892, Uniroyal Tire has developed a reputation for providing high-quality, affordable tires including its Tiger Paw® and Laredo® tire series. Uniroyal tires offer just the right combination of dependability, traction and grip in almost every weather condition, and come with one of the industry's leading warranties. Visit Uniroyal Tire online at www.uniroyaltires.com. Sources: 1 - Ross, Sativa. (2005, November). Bridging the Cultural Divide. Aftermarket Business, (http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=190215). Media Contacts: Tonya Polydoroff (864) 458-4511 tonya.polydoroff@us.michelin.com Pilar Viatela (336) 819-6914 pviatela@trone.com |
