Taking good care of your car’s battery is a maintenance must.

   As consumers look to save money, some may consider foregoing or delaying vehicle maintenance. However, proper car care is the best way to avoid major repairs down the road that are far more costly. It’s also critical to safety. Here are five maintenance musts:
1. Tire Pressure
   WHY: Over-inflated tires ride roughly and suffer premature wear at the center of their tread. Under-inflated tires decrease fuel economy, cause imprecise handling, suffer premature wear at the edges of their tread and can overheat and fail at highway speeds. Tires typically lose about a pound of pressure a month through normal seepage, and they lose or gain another pound of pressure with every 10-degree change in outside temperature.
   WHEN: Check the tire pressures (including the spare) at least once a month when the tires are cold. Always follow the pressure recommendations in your owner’s manual, or those on the tire information label in the glove box or on the driver’s doorjamb. Do not use the inflation pressure molded into the tire sidewall; this is the pressure needed to achieve the tire’s rated load capacity, and it may or may not be the correct pressure for your particular car.
2. Engine Air Filter
   WHY: Your vehicle’s air filter prevents dust and dirt from entering the engine. A dirty or clogged air filter restricts airflow and will reduce engine performance and fuel economy while increasing exhaust- emission levels.
   WHEN: Check the air filter every six months or 7,500 miles. Typically, your repair shop will inspect the filter at each oil change. You can check it by holding it up to a 60-watt light bulb. If you see light through much of the filter, it is clean enough. But, if the light is blocked by most of the filter, replace it.
3. Battery Cables/Clamps/Terminals
   WHY: Power from the battery flows to the rest of your vehicle’s electrical system through the cables, clamps and terminals. If these components and connections become corroded or loose, your car won’t have the power needed to start the engine and operate other systems.
   WHEN: The battery cables, clamps and connections should be inspected at every oil change. If there are signs of corrosion, or you notice other indications of electrical problems such as slow engine cranking or dimming headlights at idle, have your repair shop test the charging and starting system, and clean and tighten the battery connections as necessary.
4. Windshield Washer Fluid
   WHY: Rain, insects and other debris on your windshield will compromise your vision if your wipers cannot remove them. A supply of the proper washer fluid will help your wipers remove these contaminants effectively.
   WHEN: Check your washer fluid reservoir monthly and more often when you use the washers frequently. Top it up with a washer solution formulated to aid in the removal of insects and other debris, and during winter, be sure to use a solution with antifreeze protection. Finally, test the washer spray nozzles for proper operation and aim.
5. Engine Oil
   WHY: Without an adequate supply of clean oil, your engine will wear more rapidly and could even seize and be destroyed. Oil doesn’t freeze like water, but its thickness does increase as the mercury drops. Lighter grade oils reduce the load on your battery and starter, allowing more rapid cranking and starting. Lighter oils also reach critical engine lubrication areas much quicker than heavier oils, greatly reducing wear.
   WHEN: Change your engine’s oil and oil filter at the specified intervals. Always use the weight of oil recommended by the manufacturer. Watch for oil leaks beneath your vehicle and have any leaks corrected.

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It’s typically less expensive in the long run to repair an older vehicle than it is to buy a new car.

   With the downswing in the economy and the country in a recession many motorists have delayed the purchase of a newer vehicle.
   But as existing vehicles continue to age, major components can begin to fail and leave motorists facing a tough decision — invest in costly repairs to an older vehicle or the purchase of a newer one.
   “Repairing major vehicle components such as the transmission or engine can run upwards of $2,000 or more,” said John Nielsen, Director of AAA Approved Auto Repair and Auto Buying. “When faced with the decision of whether to invest in the repair of a current vehicle or purchase a newer one, motorists need to consider a number of factors.”
Comparing costs
   It is typically less expensive in the long run to repair the vehicle already owned rather than buy a newer one. Financing even a $2,000 repair typically results in lower payments (or similar payments for a shorter time) than those incurred when buying a newer vehicle.
   If motorists are still paying off a car loan on an existing vehicle, they need to take a careful look at the equity they have in it. If they are “upside down” on the loan, meaning they owe more than the current value of the vehicle, buying a newer vehicle could mean not only financing its purchase price but also the negative equity from their current vehicle.
The 50-percent rule
   After receiving the estimate of a major repair, consider the “50-percent rule.” When the cost of a needed repair approaches 50 percent of the vehicle’s value, it is time to seriously consider replacing it. Current trade-in and retail values of vehicles can be determined using tools available in the Auto Buying section of AAA.com.
Maintenance history
   The decision to make a major vehicle repair should always be based on knowing the vehicle is otherwise in good condition and likely will not require additional major repairs anytime soon. Consider the reliability of the vehicle so far. If it has a history of problems, it could indicate there are more costly repairs still to come.
   The best way to know a vehicle’s condition is by maintaining it on a regular basis and using the same repair shop. If a repair shop knows the service history of a vehicle, consumers can look to its technicians for guidance on when their vehicle likely will need major repairs. Keep in mind that the best time to make a repair-or-replace decision is always before the vehicle breaks down. A car with its transmission scattered by the roadside has little or no trade-in value.
Cosmetics
   The cosmetic condition of a vehicle can greatly affect its value and a motorist’s desire to hold on to it. Motorists should take a critical look for signs of a wear and tear and evaluate how important their vehicle’s cosmetics are to them. For someone who frequently drives business associates, vehicle appearance might be a higher priority than it is to others.
   Nicks in the paint that are starting to rust or snags in the upholstery might not seem like a big deal now, but they can grow into larger cosmetic issues that can depreciate the value. If opting to hold on to a vehicle, be sure to address those little things to prevent them from getting worse.
Lifestyle
   Changes in lifestyle can be a large factor in changing vehicles. Family size, commute length, recreational usage and business needs are all legitimate reasons to consider buying a newer vehicle. Changes in priorities can also be a factor, such as the desire for a more environmentally friendly vehicle or one with more safety features.
Outside factors
   Several outside factors may impact the decision between repairing and replacing a vehicle such as reduced pricing and special offers from manufacturers; the ability to secure financing; and other upcoming expenses. A vehicle that could become an appreciating classic sometime down the road might be worthy of extraordinary repairs and maintenance.
   If you decide to go ahead with a major repair, be sure to use a qualified and trustworthy facility. AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities have met stringent standards for customer service, quality and expertise.
   A listing of AAA Approved Auto Repair shops is available at AAA.com/repair.

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   Fast response. Reliable service. A $20 discount. If your vehicle needs a tow, AAA’s new Repair Care program gives you these benefits and more.
“It’s a quick solution to get you back on the road,” said David Dampf, AAA Automotive Services Field Operations Director.
   If you call 1-800-AAA-HELP for roadside assistance and your vehicle needs a tow, you can ask to be brought to the nearest Repair Care facility. You’ll receive the following benefits:
   • Diagnosis within one hour of arrival during business hours or first thing the following business day if it’s after hours.
   • $20 AAA member savings on diagnosis fees.
   • Waived storage fees for first 48 hours.
   • Warranty on all repairs for 12 months or 12,000 miles.
   • Arrangement for alternate transportation if you need to leave the vehicle.       Transportation includes, but is not limited to, a rental car or the facility’s complimentary shuttle. (You are still responsible for rental costs.)
   There are 35 Repair Care facilities throughout Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts, with more to come in the future. Facilities must meet rigorous standards to qualify for the program. They must have at least one Automotive Service Excellence-certified employee and must cooperate with AAA on any repair-related complaints.
   “Members can expect the highest quality of service that is available in the area where their breakdown occurs,” Mr. Dampf said. “They should feel confident that the Repair Care facility, along with AAA, will do everything possible to lessen the stress of the breakdown.”

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AAA Field Operations Director David Dampf, left, joins Achin’s Owners Sarah and Don Achin Jr. and AAA Field Representative Bryan Stonis in celebrating the garage’s national Service Provider of Excellence Silver Award.

   For 90 years and four generations, the Achin family has provided customers quality automotive service, and for the second straight year, their efforts are receiving national recognition.
   North Attleborough-based Achin’s Garage is the winner of a 2008 AAA Service Provider of Excellence Silver Award.
   Achin’s Garage was one of 12 award winners in this annual contest, which considered thousands of facilities in the United States and Canada. The garage also won the Silver Award in 2007.
   Donald Achin Jr. and his daughter Sarah Achin run the garage, which first opened in 1919. Under their leadership, Achin’s has won numerous awards, including being named the 2007 Business of the Year by the North Attleborough-Plainville Chamber of Commerce.
   “Achin’s business has grown significantly and evolved with AAA over the past 15 years,” AAA Field Representative Bryan Stonis said when nominating the garage. “What sets them apart from the rest is that they have embraced AAA’s values as their own.”
   Achin’s became a AAA Preferred Service Provider in 1993. It is one of 43 facilities in the club’s program. “Preferred Service Provider facilities are dedicated to AAA, receiving training above and beyond that of a regular contractor,” said Greg Lefort, AAA Field Operations Manager.
   And as a Preferred Service Provider, Achin’s Garage must maintain the highest level of quality in all its work.
   “They achieve higher satisfaction levels,” AAA Field Operations Director David Dampf said. “They’re the cream of the crop, the best.”

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  A smooth ride, the latest technology and that special smell — there’s nothing like the thrill of owning a new car.
  Most car dealers aim to provide a buying experience that has you driving off the lot with a satisfied smile. And they realize shoppers looking for the best deal often start with the newspaper.
  That’s why earlier this year the Rhode Island Automobile Dealers Association launched an automotive ad monitoring program. The aim: to eliminate dishonest and untruthful auto advertising from the marketplace and to ensure all auto advertising in Rhode Island is in compliance with state and federal regulations.
  “The majority of auto dealers are honest businessmen and women who advertise truthfully and honestly and give their customers good value and service,” said A. Michael Marino, of Advertising Marketplace Monitoring & Consulting Services, a private firm working with the Dealers Association.       “However, as in all industries, there are the few who do not follow the rules and use misleading and deceptive ads that hurt both consumers and competing auto dealers.”
  The Dealers Association’s program incorporates a number of elements, including:
  • Regularly monitoring auto-print media (soon to include electronic media).
  • Working with auto dealers and their ad agencies to voluntarily bring ads into compliance with regulations.
  • Referring all auto ads not in compliance with state and federal regulations where the dealer’s voluntary cooperation is not forthcoming to the appropriate regulatory agency.
  • Educating consumers.
  “The idea is not to paint all dealers as running ads that are misleading,” said Jack Perkins, Executive Vice President of the R.I. Automobile Dealers Association. “Through this program Rhode Island auto dealers have taken a major step in policing themselves by actively monitoring advertising and voluntarily correcting non-compliant ads. Yet there are things consumers should know when they’re reading car ads.”
  Seven months into the program, substantial progress has been made, he said.
  Mr. Marino, former president of the R.I. Better Business Bureau, believes Rhode Island’s car ads are now “among the cleanest on the East Coast.” In-state and out-of-state dealers know their ads appearing in Rhode Island media are being monitored.
  While this program helps keep auto ads truthful and accurate, it’s important consumers know what to look for when reading car ads. Mr. Marino offers the following tips.
Low Advertised Prices
  R.I. regulations require that a dealer’s bold advertised price must be the full delivered price available to all customers without qualification. Sales tax, registration and dealer fees are variable and do not have to be included in the advertised price. Some dealers use phony low prices to grab attention and then raise these prices by using tiny, barely legible footnotes.
  A common violation is additional cash or trade requirements ranging from $1,999 to $6,000 that more substantially raise the advertised price. Another is “must finance with dealer”; the advertised price should be available to all buyers regardless of their source of financing.
Deducting Rebates
From the Advertised Price
  Manufacturers frequently offer rebates or incentives to customers who meet certain qualifications (college graduate, military, loyalty). Some dealers deduct one, several or all available rebates from their low advertised prices.
If a customer does not qualify for the rebates, they are added back, raising the low advertised price. Most customers do not qualify for these rebates.
Dealer Fees
  R.I. dealers may charge a $95 dealer documentation fee; however, out-of-state dealers charge nearly $300 or more for this same service. This expense needs to be considered when comparing prices between in-state and out-of-state dealers.
Lease Disclosures
  Federal law requires buyers be provided with full disclosure in advertised auto leases. Lease ads must include: a statement that the transaction is a lease; disclosure of the total amount of any and all payments required at delivery; the number, amounts and period of scheduled payments; and whether a security deposit is required.
  AAA invites members to send in copies of any auto ad they believe to be deceptive. AAA will work with the R.I. Auto Dealers Association to investigate the complaint. Send the ads to AAA Horizons, 110 Royal Little Drive, Providence, RI 02904.

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  Massachusetts has introduced its “next generation” vehicle emissions testing and safety inspection program.
  Officials from the Department of Environmental Protection and Registry of Motor Vehicles said that except for a new name, Massachusetts Vehicle Check, most motorists shouldn’t be noticing much of a difference.
  “People are still able to take their vehicles to familiar neighborhood inspection stations and pay the same $29 fee for a sticker that they have since 1999,” said Registrar of Motor Vehicles Rachel Kaprielian. “In designing a stronger program to keep our state’s roads safe and air clean, we wanted to keep it convenient and affordable for the motoring public.”
  The program aims to ensure that vehicles with faulty emissions-control systems are identified and repaired more quickly than under the former program.
  To accomplish this, the RMV and DEP will require model-year 1996 and newer passenger cars, trucks and SUVs, as well as 2008 and newer medium-duty vehicles, to undergo annual on-board diagnostic emissions testing.
  “This simple, plug-in test takes only minutes and has been a cornerstone of the Massachusetts vehicle inspection program for more than four years now,” said DEP Commissioner Laurie Burt. “Now we can more easily check for emissions control problems each time vehicles are brought in for inspection, instead of every other year. This is good for engine efficiency and for the environment.”
  Model-year 1995 and older cars, trucks and SUVs will no longer receive tailpipe emissions tests, but will continue to be checked for visible smoke.
Heavy-duty diesel vehicles (weighing more than 10,000 pounds) will receive opacity tests for visible smoke beginning in April.
  Below are additional components of the Massachusetts Vehicle Check.
Economic Hardship
Repair Extension
  A private passenger vehicle can fail its emissions test but remain on the road if it needs a major and expensive emissions repair, such as a transmission replacement or engine overhaul.
  In this situation, the motorist may apply for an extension of the deadline for the vehicle to pass its retest due to economic hardship.
  This gives the motorist a one-time, one-year sticker to continue operating the car, truck or SUV while budgeting for repairs or a replacement.
Waiver Thresholds
  An emissions waiver is available to a motorist whose private passenger vehicle fails both its initial emissions test and the re-test, even after repairs by a state-registered emissions repair technician that exceed a specific cost threshold depending on model year and adjusted annually based on changes in the Consumer Price Index.
Safety Inspection
  All vehicles will continue to receive annual safety inspections, with some new features. 
  • Aftermarket lights will be rejected if they do not meet U.S. Department of Transportation or Society of Automotive Engineers standards.
  • Air bags will be checked. If they are missing, have been deployed, or the air-bag-malfunction indicator light is illuminated, the vehicle will not pass its safety inspection.
  • Rear-view mirrors originally equipped on the vehicle must be in good working order. For example, a vehicle manufactured with mirrors on both sides will not pass its safety inspection if one of those mirrors is damaged or missing.
  • All windows and glass originally equipped on the vehicle must be in place. Repairs using plastic sheeting will no longer be acceptable.
  • License plates must be readable from 60 feet away. If they are damaged, worn or faded, the vehicle will fail inspection.
One-Stop Shopping for Commercial Vehicles
  The annual state safety inspection for commercial vehicles will now meet Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and U.S. Department of Transportation requirements.
  In the past, commercial vehicles had to be inspected twice annually to ensure they met both federal and state safety standards.
The new one-stop safety inspection will be more convenient and a time saver for commercial vehicle owners.
Enforcement
  A motorist whose vehicle fails its safety inspection and does not have defects repaired immediately could be cited by police and may be subject to penalties and insurance surcharges.
  The Registry of Motor Vehicles may suspend the registration of any motorist whose vehicle does not pass its emissions and/or safety retest within 60 days of initial inspection.
  Parsons Commercial Technology Group Inc., which manages the Massachusetts Vehicle Check, has a toll-free hotline to provide motorists with inspection station and registered emissions repair shop locations, advice and referrals when vehicles fail, and other inspection-related information.
  The phone number is (866) 941-6277 and hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday, with extended hours until 8 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
  For complete information on the new Massachusetts Vehicle Check, log on to www.mass.gov/vehiclecheck.

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Cape Cod’s Richmond Bell has kept his Ford Model A running since he received it for his 16th birthday in 1941. His father paid $30 for it.

  Being an Auto Club, we had an inkling that some of our members go to extraordinary lengths to keep their cars running as smoothly as possible for as long as possible.
  And when we invited you to share your car-care stories, we imagined there’d be adults still driving vehicles they’ve owned since first earning a driver’s license.
  But we wouldn’t have expected that to include someone whose 16th birthday was in 1941 – and whose first car was already 11 years old at that time. Meet Cape Cod’s Richmond Bell, the winner of AAA Horizons’ first Car Care Month essay contest.
  Mr. Bell’s is one of more than 50 stories members shared about their love affairs with cars. Following his piece are a few of our other favorites. For more, log on to Horizons Online at AAA.com and click “Car Care Month.”

Sweet 16
Richmond Bell,
Eastham, MA
  My story begins in 1941 — more than 67 years ago — when my parents gave me a 1930 Ford Coupe as a 16th birthday present. It was not a surprise, as Dad and I had looked for a well-kept, low-mileage Model A for several months. We found one on Feb. 22, George Washington’s birthday, and my birthday was still one month away.
  On my birthday, I passed the driver-license test and registered the Coupe. It has been registered and driven since that day in 1941, except during my World War II military service, when it was stored.
  The car was my daily driver in my youth, being driven on a weekly trip of 100 miles each way to college, road trips anywhere, dirt roads for fun, and even on Cape Cod beaches with big tires. In due time, it became a second car, and in recent years, it was registered as an antique vehicle with use in shows, events and Sunday driving.
  I have performed all car care over the years, including chassis lubrication, cleaning, polishing, changing tires, minor repairs and even some overhauls. The car always has been dependable with no breakdowns where a tow truck would be needed. Today, it is a fun car to drive — my sons love to get their hands on the wheel, and the older grandchildren would love to also. The younger grandchildren love the rumble seat.
  It goes to show that routine and proper service has paid dividends in more than 67 years of dependable driving. Today, a tank of gas costs more than the $30 Dad paid for the car in 1941.

The Energizer Bunny
Torben Dalsgaard,
Cumberland, R.I.
  Ten years ago I retired a rusted-out Honda Civic CRX with 352,000 miles. The daily commute from Providence to Boston, street parking and New England winters finally brought it down. It had been a great little car, so its replacement — a Honda Civic del Sol — seemed like a natural choice.
The Civic del Sol is a 4- cylin­der, 1.5-liter, 2-seater hard-top convertible. It’s fun in the sun and great in the snow. Like the Civic CRX, the Civic del Sol can best be described as a mix between a lawn mower, a go-cart and the Energizer bunny. The car sips gas, it’s nimble and it’s fun to drive — and it just keeps going and going and going.
  My ’95 Civic del Sol pass­ed 420,000 miles in August, and it’s still doing 100 miles a day. The motor and transmission are original. As a comparison, the threads in the oil pan are new. Is there a secret to that kind of mileage? Yes: Find a good mechanic who knows Hondas inside out. Civics are generally low maintenance: Change the oil every 5,000 miles, and the timing belt and water pump every 60,000 miles. Finally, Honda Civics are sporty cars (not sports cars), so go slow.
  Is there anything wrong with this car? The rubber on the pedals is starting to wear, and there is a burned-out light bulb behind the speedometer. Nothing major — but a new seat would be nice!

Lookin’ Good From Tail to Hood
Helene Torres,
Stoughton, MA
  The first car that I owned and has a special place in my heart is my 1987 Ford Thunderbird, which has 200,000 miles on it.
  There have been many great memories that I have been able to share with others in this car. In fact, I have had this car longer than my marriage, and I took it with me when I temporarily moved to Florida. Now, I only use it for fun during the warmer months.
  It has been in a fender ben­ders caused by others, but always restored.   The accident I remember most was when I was pregnant, but the car protected my baby and me. Unfortunately, the T-bird was 14 years old and damaged enough for my insurance company to total it. I took it home, and it sat covered for almost two years. My heart broke every time I looked at it.
  I finally decided to bring it back to life and restore it to its original condition. I thought that if it saved my child and me from any injuries that I should do the same.
  My daughter is 7 now, and loves to ride in it. I am happy to know I will be able to have more great times and memories with it.

Seeking the Best MPG
Ken Kerr,
Framingham, MA
  My story begins on Presidents Day 1997 when I purchased my first new vehicle: A Ford Ranger with no options except the mandatory California emissions package. I chose the 4-cylinder because I never forgot the gas crisis of the 1970s.
  My idea of high performance is achieving the best pos­sible miles per gallon. So far, no one but me has worked on my truck, except for when I get new tires. I am a conscientious driver because I must fix anything that breaks or wears out.
  The EPA sticker on the truck listed 23 to 27 miles per gallon. Lately, I have been getting 30 to 32. I drive so I rarely need to use my brakes; I do not accelerate hard.
  I lost control on a snowy day a few years ago and ran sideways into a large tree, activating my airbag and distorting my hood, and more. I pulled it in the garage that March, tore it apart and replaced many corroded and rusted parts that had been further damaged by my accident. The project took me a year to finish.
  Without that crash, I never would have had the opportunity to replace rarely seen parts that are difficult to reach. I try to paint over areas that are prone to rust with the best paints I can find.
  I joke that I will hand this truck down to my 4-year-old son — but if it is still around then, I probably won’t want to part with it. So far, the odometer has 270,500 miles on it, with no new clutch or engine work needed yet. The compression is still excellent. Who says American vehicles are low quality?

My First Love: My MGB
Lisa DiRaimo
Warwick, RI

  When I was a little girl, my Dad always had Cadillac convertibles. My little sister and I hated them! We would sit on the floor so the wind would not blow in our faces.
  Well, that all changed on my 17th birthday in 1979. My Dad bought me a brand-new blue MGB Midget and my love affair with the ragtop began.
  The relationship was short-lived: I was accepted to college in Boston the next year, and my Mom would not let me commute in that little car. I always swore I would have another MGB.
  Although I have always had a ragtop, except for one car, my love is my 1971 British Racing Green MGB. My Dad gave me the car when he moved to Lexington, Kentucky, 19 years ago. The car had holes in the floor boards and bird’s nests in the seats, but my Dad knew I would take care of the car.
  I had it restored to its original condition, with only body work and the seats and roof to be replaced. The MGB has 77,000 original miles on the engine.
  When I drive it, people wave and youngsters stare, never before having seen an MGB. She has appeared in print ads for local banks and yet to be released movie. My late dog Madeline hated the car, because it does not have arm rests and she could not see out!
  I do not take her out as much as I used to — my husband drives her more — and I think the car is why he married me! Don’t tell him, my first love is still my MGB.

Lost and Found
Richard Winkler
Worcester, MA

  I never forgot my first car. Right out of high school, I ended up with a 1982 Mercedes-Benz 240D. It was old even then but I didn't mind, and it followed me to college. I didn't have the money to take it to the mechanic for everything and ended up doing most of my own service myself.
  With a repair manual, I tackled as much as I could from oil changes to general tune-up items. On occasion, I conceded defeat and brought it to the family mechanic. That car followed me from college to my first job. Soon after, it passed 200,000 miles.
  I was convinced the car would last forever. As far as I was concerned, it was the only car for me.
  In 2005, I packed up the car and made the big move to Massachusetts. Shortly thereafter, the engine started to sound “funny,” and transmission failure soon followed. With the move and a new job, it was more than I could handle, and I reluctantly put what was left of the car up for sale.
  I went through a series of used cars that were nothing but basic transportation to me. All that changed in January, when I saw an ad for another 240D. It was just a few miles away, so I went to see it. It was in decent shape considering its age, so I made a deal and it was mine.
  What followed was six months of work in my garage getting that car back to original working order – repairing or replacing everything I could find. I'll never forget the day I finally put that car on the road this June. I was home.

Still the One
Doris G. Dahmen
West Falmouth, MA

  As I sit and write, my garage is empty. But tomorrow my 1982 Buick Regal Limited will be back in its accustomed place as it has been for practically 26 years. It is having one of its regular service checkups, and my excellent mechanic was overwhelmed and couldn’t do it yesterday, as planned.
  When my husband and I sold our insurance agency in 1982, he said, “Now’s your chance. We’re retiring, so go around and look at cars and choose what you want — you may not have another one.”
  In the end, I chose this tan Buick, with all the dignified bells and whistles that were available. I loved it then, and I love it now.
  Over the years, many a gas station attendant has said, “Wow, what a cream puff. Want to sell it?” It still looks great and has its original paint and upholstery. I can find its classic lines readily in any parking lot — no matter how vast. The rest of the cars all look alike to me.
  Outside of a few vacations past, where a garage was not available, it has been garaged every night — plus many days. My mechanic says it is in excellent condition and very safe to drive.
  Oh, it has just over 99,000 miles on it.
  So, I shall continue to give it a pat each time I leave it. My husband is now gone, but my Regal and I are still going strong!

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AAA can help you ensure the keys you’re giving your teen are to a car that’s safe, affordable, and reliable.

  With school back in session and parents resuming shuttle service between sports, extra-curricular activities and part-time jobs, many a teenager will make a winning appeal for his or her first car.
  But, how to choose the right one? Teenagers and parents should consider together safety, affordability and reliability when making their decisions.
  “Helping their teenagers make a smart vehicle choice is an important way that parents need to be involved in their young driver’s development,” said AAA President and CEO Robert L. Darbelnet. “Making a wise choice can more than just save the teen some money and repair headaches – it can save lives.”
  Selecting the right vehicle can prove challenging as parents balance safety concerns, financial constraints, the teen’s preferences and their own emotions. Before choosing a vehicle, parents must determine if their teen needs a vehicle of his or her own.
  “Parents should assess the maturity level and actual driving needs of their teen before beginning the search for a vehicle,” Mr. Darbelnet added. “Once a teen is ready for and needs a vehicle, buying that car presents a golden opportunity for parents to actively engage the teen in making a smart, safe vehicle decision.”
  AAA’s “So Your Teen Wants a Car? A Parent’s Guide to Choosing a Vehicle” brochure provides parents and teens with important details to consider when in the market for a vehicle. The brochure emphasizes three categories to consider during the vehicle selection process: safety, affordability and reliability.
Safety
  Automobile crashes are the leading cause of death for teens, and teens are more than twice as likely to be involved in a crash as adult licensed drivers.
Parents should consider vehicles with the latest safety features that can reduce the risk of a crash and the likelihood of injury should a crash occur. Such features include anti-lock braking systems, daytime running lights, electronic stability control, airbags and adjustable/lockable head restraints.
Affordability
  Parents are encouraged to work with their teen to determine the best investment. A new vehicle may exceed the family budget, so a previously owned model with good safety features might be the best option. Insurance, fuel and maintenance costs should all factor into the decision-making process as well.
Reliability
  Selecting a vehicle with a warranty, purchasing an extended warranty, checking the vehicle’s maintenance and crash histories, conducting a pre-purchase inspection and avoiding vehicles with excessive mileage are steps parents can take to ensure the purchase of a roadworthy and mechanically sound vehicle for their teen.
  To download a copy of AAA’s “So Your Teen Wants a Car? A Parent’s Guide to Choosing a Vehicle” brochure, visit Horizons Online at AAA.com.

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Q: What is the single best way to increase your vehicle’s fuel economy?
A: Modifying driving behavior by reducing speed is the best way to improve fuel economy. Reducing speed from 70 mph to 60 mph can noticeably improve fuel economy. Driving conservatively is also important. Gentle acceleration as opposed to heavy throttle for quick starts can also improve fuel economy.
Q:    Is it more fuel efficient to use my air conditioner or travel with my windows down?
A:    When at high speeds, it’s always better to keep your windows up to maintain your vehicle’s aerodynamics. When driving in stop-and-go traffic, there is a slight increase in fuel efficiency by cutting off the air conditioner and rolling down the windows. However, today’s air conditioning systems are much more efficient than in the past and do not put as great a drain on your vehicle as they once did.
Q: How much fuel efficiency do I lose when I secure items to my vehicle’s roof rack?
A: Anytime you put something on your roof rack, it creates more aerodynamic drag on your vehicle and will substantially reduce fuel efficiency. The amount of the decrease would vary based on the size of the object on top and the vehicle.
Q: If the owner’s manual says to use premium gasoline, will it damage the engine if you use a lower octane? Or do you only lose performance?
A: Not using the fuel octane level recommended by the manufacturer can decrease the performance of your vehicle and possibly result in a decrease of your fuel economy.
Q: With ethanol now blended into fuel, will it damage your engine or have other negative effects on your vehicle?
A: The amount of ethanol now blended into fuel – typically 10 percent or less – will not damage a modern engine. Since the 1970s, when what was then called “gasahol” was introduced, vehicles have been built to accommodate ethanol in their fuel. While ethanol delivers 25 percent less fuel economy when compared with an equal volume of conventional gasoline, a 10 percent blend of ethanol to 90 percent gasoline only reduces fuel economy by an estimated 3 percent while delivering other advantages including an expanded supply of available motor fuels.

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  At least one member knows how reliable AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities are.
  Jamie Winkler, of Brockton, Mass., saw how they not only ensure a vehicle’s overall health, but also can take the worry out of a vacation when his muffler came undone en route to the White Mountains in New Hampshire.
  It was early in the morning, and with 200 miles to go, he and his traveling companions prepared for the worst as they tied the muffler and made it to the next exit.
  But after calling AAA and being directed to the nearby 128 Tire, in Reading, Mass., the situation improved.
  Although the owner had not opened for the day, he saw Mr. Winkler’s dilemma and told him to bring in his car.
  Within 20 minutes, Mr. Winkler had keys in hand and was good to go.
“When I asked what the cost would be, he said not to worry, and told us to just enjoy our vacation,” Mr. Winkler wrote. “We were in a vulnerable position, and 128 Tire took what could have been a discouraging situation and turned it into a positive experience.”
  It’s no wonder: Not every garage makes the AAA cut.
  Requirements to become an AAR facility are stringent, and standards cover staff qualifications and training, customer service, facility appearance and community reputation. Here are some of the criteria:
  • The shop must have been in business at least one year so AAA can review the shop’s track record by surveying a sampling of customers about their experiences;
  • It must have an acceptable community reputation, determined by reviewing and analyzing past financial statements or equivalent reports, local or state consumer-protection-agency reports, or inquiries of randomly selected past customers;
  • The garage must offer top-notch customer service with a qualified, courteous and efficient staff, and the waiting area must be a clean, safe and comfortable environment; and
  • The shop must staff at least one Automotive Service Excellence-certified technician in each of the four main areas of service – engine performance, engine repair, brakes and electrical – and train employees to keep them current.
  “The check sheet is elaborate because the program is an attempt to guarantee a certain level of excellence,” said Rich Iozzi, AAR Field Representative. “It gives consumers a consistent standard that is probably more rigorous and stringent than you would find in a licensing program.”
  The AAR program, around since 1975, has become so widely respected that shops consider it an honor to be accepted and agree to regular inspections to ensure they continue to meet AAA’s quality standards.
“The customers believe in AAA. They respect the AAA name,” said Dan Fine, Manager of Park Avenue Auto Service, an AAR garage in Cranston, R.I.
  “They have a certain trust here because AAA gives them that trust,” he added, “and that’s why I like being affiliated with AAA, because I pride myself on being an honest and trustworthy place for people to bring their cars.”

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Good safety habits are an important part of learning to drive.

  Automotive safety is much more than exercising caution while driving. Before you get behind the wheel, it’s important to take a driver training course or read up on vehicle reviews. Once you’re ready to drive, safe driving techniques and regular ve­hi­cle maintenance are critical to staying safe behind the wheel.
  Here are some tips to consider:
Learning to Drive
Whether you’re learning for the first time or teaching a teenager the rules of the road, there are many things you can do to ensure safety:
  • Start each practice ses­sion by checking out the vehicle. Adjust mirrors and seats, and check tires and warning lights and fuel and fluid levels.
  • Before each practice drive, predetermine a route so you can avoid what may seem like last-minute directions. Target specific skills to focus on each session, such as turning, backing up, shifting gears, or parking.
  • Limit early practice ses­sions to two hours during daylight and clear weather.
  • Make sure you know the meaning of road signs and pavement markings, and be aware of potential hazards on the route.
  • Slowly introduce dif­fer­ent levels of traffic, from ma­neuvering in light traffic to maneuvering in moderate traffic. As you gain experience and knowledge, ease into more challenging situations like merging onto in­terstates.
Obeying the Rules
of the Road
We all know how important it is to obey speed limits and stop lights, but there are other things you can do to stay safe while driving:
  • When leaving for work or an appointment, leave a few minutes early so you’re not rushed.
  • Drive with your headlights on, even during the day, so pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers can see you.
  • Be aware of areas such as playgrounds that indicate children could be in the vicinity.
  • Slow down in or near residential areas.
  • Scan between parked cars and other objects for signs that children could dart into the road.
  • Practice extra caution in inclement weather.
  • Make eye contact with pedestrians who are about to cross the street. Be aware of their next steps and make them aware of yours.
  • Make sure you know the law when it comes to using portable devices, such as cell phones, PDAs, or GPS units. The safest option is to refrain from using these devices while your vehicle is in motion.
  • Avoid driving while drow­sy, and never drive after con­suming alcohol.
Keeping Your Vehicle
in Top Shape
  Performing regular main­tenance on your vehicle will not only extend its life, but will also make the vehicle much safer. In addition to regularly scheduled oil changes and other maintenance listed in your owner’s manual, don’t forget about these items:
  • Make sure to check your tire pressure regularly. Over or underinflated tires pose a safety risk and can cause serious damage or injury if they fail while driving. AAA recommends checking your tire pressure once a month, even if your vehicle has a built-in tire-pressure-monitoring system.
  • Replace your windshield wipers regularly. Rain and snow decrease visibility while driving. If your wipers are not in good condition, the problem only gets worse.
  • Check and refill washer fluid. A clean windshield is necessary for you to see all potential threats while driving.
  • Have cracked windshields fixed or replaced as soon as possible to avoid further breakage and possible injury.
  Automotive safety begins before you even start the engine.

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  A vehicle’s windshield plays a critical role in automobile safety: Not only can driving with a damaged or cracked windshield hinder visibility, but also it can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle during a roll-over.
  Motorists with cracked or damaged windshields – a common occurrence in spring with gravel and other debris on the roadway – should have them repaired or replaced by a certified auto glass technician.
  Proper auto-glass installation is key to safety; if a windshield is not installed properly, a deploying airbag could blow out the glass.
Still, good visibility is reason alone to ensure you repair any damage to and regularly maintain your windshield.
  Visibility is a critical component of driving safely because it directly affects the driver’s ability to anticipate and respond to the driving environment.
Consider visibility when maintenance is performed on your vehicle. Items necessary for good visibility are:
  • Clear, clean windows unobstructed by decals, dark window tinting or objects that interfere with the driver’s view of the road.
  • Windshield wipers changed twice a year will ensure the rubber remains soft enough to efficiently remove water, snow and road grit from the glass surface.
  • Headlights, brake lights, turn signals, parking lights, emergency flashers, and the center, high-mounted brake light should all be inspected regularly and replaced immediately if needed. Lights can also become dirty, which limits their brightness. They should be cleaned regularly.
  • Mirrors must be clean, large enough and correctly angled to provide a complete view of all areas behind and to the side of the vehicle. Objects inside or outside the vehicle must not obstruct mirrors. They usually need to be reset when there is a change of drivers.

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