Lighting

It's been said that people who live in very small towns don't have to use their turn signals...everybody in town already knows where everyone else is going. But for the rest of us, and for small town folks, too, automotive lighting is vital. It's our only means of communication with other motorists. Without blinkers, how would we say, "I'm turning left now." Without flashers, how would anyone know if we had a problem?

ALSO  •  Listen to this Car Care Tip!

According to the Car Care Council, over 25% of the vehicles inspected during National Car Care Month vehicle check lanes failed due to lighting discrepancies. Inoperative brake lights were a big offender. That's a troublesome statistic, considering that the brake light is the only way a motorist has to communicate the need to slow down or stop.

The best way to avoid this kind of dangerous situation is to perform a monthly lighting check. Simply do a walk around inspection of your exterior lights. Make sure both the high and low beams are working on your headlights. Get a friend to help with the brake lights and blinkers. And don't forget the interior lights. These can be vital as well.

For more information on lighting and other automotive maintenance issues, log on www.carcarecouncil.org.