Are You Prepared for Car Repairs?

ARE YOU PREPARED FOR CAR REPAIRS? Americans expect their vehicles to last longer than they do, but most are not prepared for expensive repairs. • THE LIFESPAN OF A CAR • Over 13% About 75% 64% of drivers of drivers will drive say they will drive their vehicle as long as it lasts. plan on keeping their new vehicles for at least their vehicle for over 12 3 4 5 8. years 100,000 miles In 2013, the average vehicle age (in years) on the road was 62% of drivers don't have money saved up for repairs. 40% of drivers say the most they spent on a car repair was $1,000 or more. 46% 22% say they would be able to pay for the $1,000 repair with savings. say they would have to put it on a credit card. CARD 10 TIPS TO PROLONG• THE LIFE OF YOUR VEHICLE ACCELERATE SLOWLY when you begin your drive. The most wear to the engine and drive train occurs in the first ten to twenty minutes of operation. Buy gas at service stations where the GAS IS FILTERED AT THE PUMP and pump filters are changed regularly. Some stations don't have pump filters, may not mix alcohol and fuel properly, or water down their product. Keep a pad and pencil in the glove compartment and use them to RECORD YOUR GAS FILL-UPS 3. gas mileage worsens, it may be an early warning sign that something is wrong with your car. AND MILEAGE. If you notice that your PARK IN THE SHADE (preferably a garage) to minimize interior damage from UV sunlight and heat and to protect the paint from moisture, bird droppings, and dust. FIX SMALL WINDSHIELD CHIPS to keep them from spreading, restore structural integrity, and improve clarity. The cost will be far less than replacing the windshield completely. MAINTAIN PROPER INFLATION as under-inflated tires create excessive 6 heat and stress that can lead to tire failure. Use a tire pressure gauge at least once a month. CLEAN YOUR ENGINE at least every year or two. A clean engine will run O cooler than a dirty one, will also make it much easier to spot leaks and to service components. CHECK YOUR BATTERY REGULARLY to extend its life and avoid the hassle of being stranded with a dead battery. Keep it clean and inspect it for any damage. USE A LIGHTWEIGHT KEY CHAIN, because if not, the weight, combined with bouncing while you drive, can wear out tumblers inside the ignition and eventually lead to ignition switch failure. RUN YOUR AC IN WINTER to prevent moving parts in the compressor from 10 seizing. Also, circulating the refrigerant will help keep the seals soft and pliant. It's important for drivers to not only continue to maintain their vehicles, but also have a financial emergency plan in place should they be faced with a sudden unexpected auto repair bill. -Marshall L. Doney, AAA Vice President BROUGHT TO YOU BY: ENDURANCE Sources: http://www.rd.com/advice/saving-money/74-car-care-tips-to-keep-your-automobile-in-topnotch-condition/ http://newsroom.aaa.com/2011/08/1-in-4-cant-pay-for-major-car-repair/ t7 :....... ...... .*****.. ....... ...... *.......**