TIRES

With some simple maintenance, your tires can help keep you on the road for thousands of trouble-free miles.

• Check your tire pressure often especially during times of temperature changes.
• Check tire wear. If you see uneven wear take your car to your nearest Burt Brothers service center for an alignment check.

FLAT TIRE

Flat tires are very inconvenient. While there is nothing you can do to prevent a flat tire, you can help minimize the hassle and damage to your tire by being prepared.

MAKE SURE YOU ALWAYS HAVE:

• An inflated spare tire
• A jack
• A lug wrench
• Bracing material, such as a small piece of wood or a brick

OIL, LUBE & FILTER CHANGE

Your vehicle relies on oil, lubrication and an oil filter to keep it running smoothly and at peak performance which includes fuel economy. Every three months or 3,000 miles, your vehicle should be ready for an oil change. Check owner’s manual for specific recommendations for your vehicle.

BRAKES

Brakes are one of the most important components on your vehicle. You need the confidence of knowing that when you press on the brake, your vehicle is going to stop. That's why it's important to keep these tips in mind to help keep your brakes functioning properly:

• Have your brakes checked by your Burt Brothers service center at least once a year — more often if you drive frequently in city traffic or up and down canyons.
• Never drive with the parking brake on.
• If you hear a high-pitched squeak when you use the brakes, have them checked.
• If you hear a scratching or grinding noise when not braking, this also can be a sign of a brake or bearing issue and should be inspected immediately.
• Check your brake fluid along with other car fluids. If you have to add fluid more than once every few months, you may have a leak.

BATTERY

The primary job of your vehicle’s battery is to help start the engine. However, it also stores energy generated by the alternator and runs the secondary electrical systems or additional components in your vehicle. Have your battery checked regularly for:

• Loose hold-down clamps and terminals.
  
• Corrosion on the terminals.
• Alternator belt tension and wear.
• Charging ability. Especially during winter or cold weather. Cold temperatures can drain a battery.

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

To keep warm and cozy or cool and comfortable, it's best to maintain your heating and air conditioning systems. Have your heating and cooling systems inspected regularly.

• Inspect the interior controls and blower.
• Check radiator coolant level, hoses, pressure cap and thermostat.
• Test the compressor belt.
• Check for leaks or other damage.
• Test your cooling system pressure.
• Comparing the A/C pressure to manufacturer specifications.
• Testing the A/C system for refrigerant leaks.
• Checking the interior vent air temperature.

WINTER DRIVING CONDITIONING

Winter brings many more road hazards. Here are some tips for winter driving.

• Keep your fuel tank topped off during poor weather.
• Make sure your tires have plenty of tread.
• Know your vehicles limitations.
• Drive at reduced speeds, even if the road appears dry. Black ice is nearly transparent and can cause you to lose control.
• Use smooth acceleration and lane changes. Sudden acceleration can cause your tires to lose grip with the road surface. Sudden lane changes can also cause your tires to lose grip with the road surface and loss of control.
• Give plenty of room between you and the car in front of you. Stopping can take two to five times more distance than normal dry roads.

SAFETY

The road brings many situations. When traveling long distances or even for your daily commute...

• Keep your fuel tank topped off during poor weather.
• Keep a first aid kit in your vehicle.
• Make sure all driving lights and turn idicators function.
• Have brakes and tires inspected regularly.
• ALWAYS wear seat belts and no underage children in the front seat.