The Journal

Issue date: 4/13/06 Section: Lifestyle

Media Credit: Linda Golden Senior Kris Gale, a media communications major, suggests checking belts for wear each season.

Most people don't give their cars a second thought until they are stranded on the side of the road, kicking the useless hunk of metal and waiting for some sort of rescue.

The time spent stranded might be good for some contemplation about the inner-you, but the only question you should be asking is, "Why didn't I get that funny noise checked out?"

After answering this question, you should be kicking yourself, because the cliché is true: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. With a bit of forethought, you could save yourself the time and money lost from a broken car.

Considering that the majority of Webster students commute to class every day, here are some tips that should help your car as it takes you to class this spring.

It's time for a checkup. Some garages offer free inspections
as part of their customer service. Free inspection services are a good way to have your car checked out before going on long trips, selling it or just to be sure that it will continue to get you to class and work on time. Inspections usually take about 40 minutes said general manager, of Meineke in Chesterfield, Craig Trunk.

Evaluate your car skills. If you can't even open the hood on your car, you probably want to take your car to the garage for everything. If you just helped your friend install a new engine, you can probably handle changing oil and rotating tires.

If you want to learn, there are places that will teach you how to do minor car repairs.

"You should check your tire pressure after driving less than one mile, or after letting the car sit for three hours," said Manager of Firestone in University City, Dan Roderique. "The correct tire pressure can be found on a tag on the inside panel on the driver's side door. Not all cars have the same tire pressure for all tires, some cars have different tire pressure for front and back tires."

Manager of Midas in Florissant, Bob Murrell said tire pressure needs to be changed when the weather changes because for every "10 degree change in temperature, it will affect your tire pressure 5 to 7 PSI."

PSI stands for pounds-per-square-inch and is the measurement for the amount of air in your tires. The correct pressure helps conserve gas, allows the tire to last longer and prevents possible blowouts.

Continued...

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