New drivers love their cars, but they typically don’t realize what it
takes to maintain them. The Car Care Council recommends having fun
teaching children about the importance of car care long before they can
drive so they know how routine maintenance impacts the safety and
dependability of their vehicle.
“Many children love learning how cars operate, however, they don’t
really understand the nuts and bolts of what it takes to properly
maintain a car,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council.
“By taking the time to teach your children the basics of car care, they
will not only learn to appreciate the value of taking care of a car, but
they will be more informed and better prepared for the day they become a
car owner.”
There are many do-it-yourself service procedures that can be
performed by parents and children together. The Car Care Council
suggests starting with three easy and fun maintenance steps to give
children a general overview of car maintenance.
Check Lights and Wiper Blades – Explain to children the
importance of being able to see and be seen when driving. Show them how
to replace the wiper blades and work together to make sure all interior
and exterior lights work properly.
Wash the Car – Kids love to help wash the car. Ask them to
look for any dents, dings, scratches or cracked glass, as these
problems, when left unattended, can lead to more expensive repairs down
the line.
Check the Oil – Show children how to check the oil and explain
how periodic oil and filter changes help keep your car clean on the
inside of the engine. Also explain that other vehicle fluids, such as
windshield solvent, should be checked and refilled to keep the car
running properly.
The Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council’s Car Care Guide or for more information, visit www.carcare.org.
Read more at: http://www.carcare.org/2015/07/car-care-kids/
