You may enjoy the hot summer temperatures, but it can be extremely hard on your vehicle. In order to keep it running smoothly, just a few short minutes of your time are required for a quick and easy check up before you check out for your next vacation.
“A driver’s goal should be to reach their destination safely and securely,” says Bryan Gregory, Advance Auto Parts’ (NYSE:AAP) director of consumer education. “With the summer season, come the extremes of heat combined with stop and go traffic and longer trips. Just as you would apply sunscreen at the beach, you should also make sure your vehicle is prepared for the conditions that you will be traveling in.”
Gregory recommends taking a few minutes to check your vehicle from bumper to bumper, beginning with a quick peek under the hood. You can start by checking your headlights, air conditioning, oil, oil filter and coolant. Next, check your belts, hoses and battery, or simply stop by an Advance Auto Parts store to receive a free battery check up.Finally, inspect your tires by placing a penny head first into the tread; the tread should cover the top of Abraham Lincoln’s head.
In order to be prepared for an unexpected break down, every vehicle should contain an emergency kit. “This kit should include items such as bottled water, non-perishable snacks, your cell phone, basic hand tools, a flashlight and flares,” says Gregory, “and if you have children, a source of entertainment that does not require power from the vehicle is a plus.”
Other quick preparations for any trip include wiping down all mirrors and making sure all windows are clean. You should also make sure to secure all luggage, as it could become airborne and cause severe injuries in an accident. And don’t forget to check your wiper blades in case of a sudden rain shower.
So before you take your vehicle on its next big trip, remember to drive safe and don’t forget to check-up before you check out.
Advance Auto Parts and its well-trained, knowledgeable Team Members can help customers with all of the parts and products needed to perform gas-saving do-it-yourself projects. ASE-certified experts and the company’s consumer education program, featuring free instructional brochures and video clinics available in stores and at www.AdvanceAutoParts.com, show customers how to save money and increase vehicle efficiency by repairing and replacing various vehicle systems, fluids, and parts themselves.
About Advance Auto Parts
Headquartered in Roanoke, Va., Advance Auto Parts is the second-largest retailer of automotive aftermarket parts, accessories, batteries, and maintenance items in the United States, based on store count and sales. As of April 21, 2007, the Company operated 3,150 stores in 40 states, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. The Company serves both the do-it-yourself and professional installer markets.
Advance Auto Parts supports a variety of non-profit organizations at the corporate and local levels and encourages its Team Members to become actively involved in various community-based charitable organizations. Nationally, Advance Auto Parts is a strong supporter of United Way and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). Since 1994, Advance Auto Parts has raised more than $12 million for JDRF and is one of that organization’s largest corporate supporters.
Additional information about the Company, employment opportunities, customer services, and on-line shopping for parts and accessories can be found on the Company’s web site at www.AdvanceAutoParts.com.
