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With three out of four drivers believing that hands-free technology is safe to use, Americans may be surprised to learn that these popular new vehicle features may actually increase mental distraction, according to new research by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. This research can serve as guidance to manufacturers who increasingly market hands-free systems as safety features. The good news for consumers is that it is possible to design hands-free technologies that are less cognitively distracting, according to the research.

For motorists, the spooky part about Halloween is that little ghouls and goblins often dress in dark colors and in costumes that cover their eyes, and some get so excited they simply forget road safety rules. To help keep trick-or-treaters as safe as possible, the Car Care Council reminds motorists to drive slowly, especially through neighborhoods, to be extra careful when entering or exiting driveways or alleyways, and make sure the vehicle’s brakes and lights work properly.

Although the check engine light may look scary lit up on the dashboard, there is nothing to fear. A glowing check engine light doesn’t mean you have to immediately pull the car to the side of the road, but it does mean you should get the car checked out as soon as possible, says the Car Care Council.

“Motorists should not get spooked when the check engine light comes on,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “When illuminated, the check engine light usually means that a vehicle system, such as the ignition, fuel injection or emission control, is not operating properly.”

Some common malfunctions that can cause the check engine light to illuminate include a faulty oxygen sensor, mass air flow sensor, or spark plugs and wires. If the light flashes, the condition is more critical and must be checked immediately to prevent severe damage, which may include catalytic converter damage.

The average American car owner pays almost $9,000 a year in driving costs. Automotive expert Lauren Fix, The Car Coach shares important automotive maintenance and car repair tips to help you save money and keep your car running smoothly.

For more information and for a FREE car care guide, visit the Car Care Council at www.carcare.org.

There have been 17 hot car related deaths this year. What should you do if you discover a child has been locked in a hot car? Automotive expert Lauren Fix demonstrates how to prevent another hot car related death. Watch these tips on Inside Edition to prevent another tragedy!

If the heat of summer is wearing you down, it is likely taking its toll on your car battery too. Contrary to popular belief, summer highs rather than winter lows pose the greater threat to battery life, according to the non-profit Car Care Council.

Sooner or later all batteries have to be replaced. Excessive heat and overcharging are the two main reasons for shortened battery life. Heat causes battery fluid to evaporate, thus damaging the internal structure of the battery. A malfunctioning component in the charging system, usually the voltage regulator, allows too high a charging rate, leading to slow death for a battery.

“When most motorists think of dead batteries that cause starting failure, they think of severe winter weather, but summer heat is the real culprit,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “Many battery problems start long before the temperatures drop. Heat, more than cold, shortens battery life.”

With the hot summer temperatures on the rise, knowing the symptoms of a sick cooling system are critical to your summer driving plans, since cooling system failure is a leading cause of vehicle breakdowns. The most noticeable symptoms are overheating, leaks, a sweet smell of antifreeze and repeatedly needing to add coolant, according to the Car Care Council.

Coolant reservoir and level indicator- image“Neglecting your cooling system can result in serious damage and even complete engine failure, which would put a sudden end to your summer road trip,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “If the cooling system doesn’t receive regular maintenance, it’s not a question of whether it will fail, but rather when it will fail. Performing regular checkups of belts, hoses, the water pump and fluids will ensure your car remains properly cooled and healthy for many miles down the road.”

A properly operating brake system is critical to safe vehicle operation and control under a variety of conditions. Brake Safety Awareness Month in August, sponsored by the Motorist Assurance Program (MAP), is the ideal time to stop and make sure your brakes are working properly before the new school year and colder temperatures arrive.

“When it comes to vehicle safety, the brake system is at the top of the list,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “Motorists can put a stop to any potential brake system problems by recognizing the signs and symptoms that their brake system may need maintenance or repair.”

Buyer beware! Over a million cars with flood damage are lurking in used car lots. NEVER buy a car that has sustained water damage. Automotive expert Lauren Fix, The Car Coach shares important tips on how to spot a car that has been through a flood.

What should you do if your car has been in a flood? ALWAYS take your flood-damaged car to a mechanic to find out the extent of the damage to features like your car's electrical systems, air bags, passive safety systems and more. Automotive expert Lauren Fix, The Car Coach tells you how to clean your car once the waters recede.