 Download this press release as a PDF document.
GREENVILLE, S.C., March 30 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ -- There's a freedom and an enjoyment gained by driving a car. This is probably a factor in why there are millions of vehicles on the road today, and how come individuals are spending a greater amount of time behind the wheel.
Hispanic vehicle owners are becoming an increasingly large part of the automotive public. According to the U.S. Census data, over the past five years, the number of vehicles acquired by Hispanics has increased from 540,000 to 860,000.
 By inspecting early, drivers can plan ahead for replacement |
Because a vehicle can be a large financial investment, it is important to take care of that purchase wisely, especially in this turbulent economy. As an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)-certified mechanic, Ricardo Rodriguez-Long knows car maintenance and has partnered with Uniroyal(R) 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," says 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 helps avoid surprises when you go to have routine maintenance done," he added.
Drivers may not have to pull into a service station for routine maintenance or do the work themselves as often, either. Take oil changes, for example.
"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," says Rodriguez-Long. "While changing your oil every 3,000 miles doesn't harm your car, it doesn't necessarily provide benefits, just added costs."
Consider these recommended maintenance schedules from Rodriguez-Long:
-- Every 30 days: 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 doorjamb, 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.
-- 5,000 to 15,000 miles: 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.
-- Every 10,000 miles: If drivers 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.
-- 30,000 to 60,000 miles: Every 30,000 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," said Rodriguez-Long. 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.
-- 60,000 miles +: 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.
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 http://www.UniroyalTires.com/espanol.
SOURCE Uniroyal
NOTE TO EdITORS: A high-resolution image is available at: http://www.hispanicprwire.com/home.php?l=in
|
