May 2009 - May is Car Care Month

The warm days of summer are almost here. Don't leave your Earth Day outlook behind. Channel it to your vehicle. Have you ever noticed the bright little set of lights on your dash; the instrument cluster? They usually go on when you start the engine, but on occasion one stays on. This light is a special indicator called the Check Engine Light. It is a function of the vehicle's On-Board Diagnostic system that is required for vehicles newer than 1996. The Check Engine Light acts as a red flag to tell you when something goes wrong with the emissions and/or performance system of your vehicle. Like your heart-beat and respiration rate, the Check Engine Light tells you that your car or truck needs attention. Don't ignore it; it won't go out until you assess the problem. Sometimes it’s simple and inexpensive, but it can get worse and more costly the longer your vehicle operates in this condition. This summer is sure to be a hot one, meaning that we have more reason to be concerned about ground-level ozone or smog. Air pollution that is generated from vehicles, especially sick cars, impacts our health and environment. So make sure your vehicle is in tip-top condition. You’ll get better fuel economy and save money. Collectively, we’ll enjoy better air quality and your Earth Day attitude will be with you all year.

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