Aug 12, 2008 7:25 pm US/Eastern
AAA: Gas Prices Aside, Don't Skimp On Maintenance
Everything From Tires To Belts To Oil Should Be Checked Regularly Or Fuel Costs Will Be Least Of Your Worries
NEW YORK (CBS) ―
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Make sure tires are properly inflated by using a tire pressure gauge.
CBS
These days experts say many drivers have nothing left after they fill up so they're forced to slam the brakes on basic car maintenance. CBS 2 HD has a warning about cutting corners that will now only cost you more in the long run. It could be downright dangerous.
It's usually a smooth ride in Tonya Raines' SUV, but two months ago she hit a bump in the road.
"I went to a tire store because I wanted to get my tires rotated," Raines said. "And the gentleman looked at the tires and it was not able to be rotated because the cords were showing."
The bill for a new set of wheels? Over $500.
"I just got two tires because the cost was so high," Raines said.
The decision left her with two worn out wheels. Her car also needs transmission repairs, but that will have to wait, too. AAA says the soaring price of everything from gas to groceries is putting a wrench in more and more drivers' basic car maintenance. Many are skimping on important checks like anti-freeze and brake pads, and, in Raines' case, tires, one of AAA's biggest safety concerns.
"Tires that are starting to wear out just aren't going to have the traction so you're much more likely to slide," said AAA's John Nielsen.
Of course, that could lead to a serious accident. Despite that danger, the tire industry says in this economy drivers are procrastinating because, in many cases, they have little choice.
"Consumers are putting off until the next paycheck, the next month, the next six months, the next year, tires that should be replaced," said Roy Littlefield of the Tire Industry Association.
To see if your wheels are worn out, try the penny test.
"If you can put a penny in the tire and see the forehead then you know that there's not enough tread," Littlefield said.
Putting off an oil change can also lead to engine trouble, and keep an eye on belts and hoses to avoid sudden breakdowns.
"If you delay maintenance, what could have been a $5 maintenance item can result in $500 worth of damage or $5,000 worth of damage," Nielsen said.
While it may seem obvious, also keep an eye on your windshield wiper blades. AAA says they're often overlooked and can start to scratch the glass.
AAA also suggests checking your owner's manual. It will have recommended timelines and guidelines for tuning up your car.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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