AAA advises motorists advises winter car check-ups

Before a cold and wet winter settles in, AAA advises Nevada motorists to "take five for auto fitness," with five simple but essential vehicle maintenance tasks best completed during the fall. By following some basic guidelines themselves, or getting routine inspections from a reputable professional, owners can prevent costly repairs, save on gas and avoid emergency situations on the highway.

1. Check all fluid levels, vehicle lights, belts and hoses. Refill, replace or adjust as necessary.

2. Replace windshield wiper blades if they are more than six months old.

3. Change the oil if it has been more than six months or 5,000 miles since the last change. Older vehicles will require more frequent oil changes.

4. Check to make sure the coolant has been flushed and changed as recommended by the vehicle maintenance schedule.

5. Inspect and rotate tires and check brakes if it has been more than 7,500 miles since this was last done.

To assist motorists in better understanding how to maintain their vehicle. AAA has prepared a variety of automotive maintenance Web pages at www.aaa.com and some are available in brochure format at local AAA offices.