Free car-care checkups Saturday at the TCC
by Alan Fischer on Oct. 20, 2008, under Local, SpecialDrivers can learn how to make their vehicles run better, cheaper and cleaner Saturday at a free car care checkup at the Tucson Convention Center.
The event, sponsored by the Pima County Department of Environmental Quality and the Automotive Services Association, will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at TCC Parking Lot C.
Something as simple as underinflated tires can decrease gas mileage and accelerate tire wear, said Jacqui Harry, president of ASA and owner of JayBees Auto Service.
“If your tires are 4 pounds low, it can cost you one to two miles per gallon,” Henry said.
Correct inflation figures and tire size are posted on the driver-side doorjamb or door edge, she said.
About 100 volunteers, including Automotive Service Excellence certified mechanics, shop owners and auto class students, will be inspecting vehicles, she said.
Inspections, which take an average of 20 minutes, include checking tires, lights, windshield, wiper blades, belts, hoses and fluids.
The technicians are available to answer questions following the inspection, she said.
Last year the event drew about 300 vehicles, she said.
That number could grow because the event is being held in conjunction with Tucson’s Green Festival at the TCC, she said.
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IF YOU GO
• What: Car Care Checkup
• When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.
• Where: Tucson Convention Center Parking Lot C, just west of the TCC Music Hall
• Cost: Free
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MAINTENANCE TIPS
• Change your oil at the proper interval, and use the correct weight oil your vehicle calls for. Newer cars have tighter tolerances and many use lower weight oil.
• Change your fuel filter every 30,000 miles, and don’t let your tank drop below a quarter full. This will keep the sediments that gathers at the bottom of the tank from getting into the fuel pump and engine.
• Check your air filter, and replace it if needed.
• Make sure the battery connections look good. If they are grungy or discolored, they can cause problems with the vehicle’s computer functions.
• Keep tires inflated to the correct pressure.
Source: Jacqui Harry, owner of JayBees Auto Service
