My articles usually cover topics pertaining to real estate, but this article is about getting to and from real estate with relative safety. I ask everyone who reads this article to spend a few minutes and consider how easy it is to neglect the single most valuable material position we have…Our automobile.

We are very quick to get upset, kick or curse when our cars have a mechanical problem. Yet we seldom remember simple preventive care of our vehicles to assure safe operation. Here is my list of preventive auto maintenance tips to insure safety and value of operation:

• Change the engine oil every three thousand (3000) miles! This increases the life of your engine and prevents premature costly repairs.
• Have the oil changed somewhere that includes free inspection of fluid levels, belts, tire pressure, and windshield wipers.
• Each time you fill the gas tank, check the levels of the engine coolant, break fluid, washer fluid, and check the tires. Consistent proper tire pressure increases the life of the tires, improves gas mileage, and braking & handling.
• Wash your car every week. This will keep the finish of the car shiny and other surfaces clear of road grime.
• Check your headlights, brake lamps, turn signal lamps, reverse lamps, and rear driving lights each time you change your ending oil. Proper functioning lights promote safety, and the lamps on average cost less than $3.00 each.
• If you feel there is a problem with the car, don’t wait for a breakdown. Instead, have the car checked by a certified mechanic. Often, a small inexpensive repair can prevent a major costly breakdown.
• Inspect windshield wipers often and don’t wait until the rainy season to change them. Most oil change centers offer wiper replacement.
• If you drive a newer car, don’t assume you can overlook these tips. The best way to keep a new car operating like new is preventive maintenance.
• Drive smart! How you drive has a big impact on ware & tare, gas mileage, and overall operating cost. Keep a safe distance from other cars and pace the distance between traffic lights to minimize accelerating and breaking.
• Buckle Up and always wear safety belts! Paramedics and patrol officers often state that they rarely unbuckle dead persons.

Please be car smart and use these tips to your advantage. See you on the road!