Now that you’ve saved enough to buy gasoline, you can deal with the rigors of summer travels.
From casual trips to the beach, maybe a mountain or desert vacation or just a highway cruise to nowhere in particular, get acquainted with the car owner’s manual.
“Summerize” everything so innocent excursions don’t result in mechanical disasters. Simple maintenance can make a dramatic difference.
According to Peter Mossy of the Mossy Automotive Group, summer heat, dust, an increase in stop-and-go traffic, and even the cumulative effects of wintertime driving can take their toll on a vehicle not properly maintained.
“There are a number of benefits that result from inspecting your vehicle, and preparing it for summer use,” Mossy explained. “Conducting regular inspections and making the necessary repairs and periodic maintenance will lessen the odds of future mechanical failure.
“It will also prolong the life of the vehicle as well as increase its resale value. It really should become an annual event for any car owner because of the tremendous upside when it’s done regularly and properly.”
Mossy advises reading the owner’s manual and following manufacturer’s recommended service schedules.
Air conditioning systems operating marginally are likely to fail in climbing temperatures. This calls for attention by skilled and qualified mechanics.
Cooling systems should be completely flushed and refilled every 24 months to avoid overheating. Oil and oil filters should be changed in accordance with the owner’s manual.
Engine performance can be improved by replacing air, PCV and fuel filters, and by correcting starting and idling problems when first noticed.
Tire pressure is a frequent cause of flats and blowouts. Make sure the tires are cooled down before checking, and rotate them about every 3,000 miles to ensure even wear.
Brakes should be checked as recommended but sooner if pulsations, grabbing, noises or longer than usual stopping distances are noticed.
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Cerberus Capital Management LP is expected to take a “deep interest” in operations at newly acquired Chrysler, the way a conglomerate such as General Electric Co. stays engaged with its holdings.
Cerberus chairman John Snow said an automotive management team will consult on issues from labor talks to payroll.
Snow believes U.S. automakers, despite losses totaling more than $15 billion in 2006, are still “a very fundamental, basic industry and will remain an important part of American industry.”
No industry newcomer, Cerberus’ other automotive assets include a 51 percent stake in GMAC LLC, GM’s former finance arm. The company also has offered to buy bankrupt Tower Automotive Inc., a major supplier of frames and bodies to Ford Motor Co.
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NASCAR approached Kentucky Fried Chicken about replacing Busch for its 23-race stock car series but was turned down when KFC scanned the $30 million price tag. Subway, Dish Network, Dunkin’ Doughnuts and even WalMart may be new targets for marketers.
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Noteworthy: Saturn has changed course, dropping its compact for a slick, new hatchback…In Road and Track’s recent listing of the top 12 autos under $30,000, it came up with the Nissan 350Z as the slim winner over the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. They ranked the Ford Mustang GT third. Fine handling, rigid structure, free-revving engine and impressive brakes added up for Nissan’s victory.
