Ignore These Vehicle Repairs and You May Get Pulled Over

BETHESDA, MD · Sept. 6, 2018

Many drivers may feel that they don't have the time or money to address vehicle repairs immediately. However, beware that ignoring some repairs can get you pulled over and even ticketed, says the Car Care Council.

"Ignoring certain vehicle repairs may seem to save money in the short term but can lead to extra costs. These costs can be fines or 'fix-it' tickets if these problems are not taken care of when they arise," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. "In some jurisdictions, car owners may even lose their license for certain violations. A few dollars spent on simple vehicle repairs can help avoid trouble with the law."

While a vehicle is in operation, traffic laws require that certain equipment is properly installed and functioning correctly, including brakes, headlights, turn signals, mirrors, windshields and safety belts, to name a few.

The Car Care Council recommends that drivers address these repairs right away as they present public safety concerns that can earn drivers a traffic ticket on top of a repair bill.

Non-functioning turn signals and headlights or taillights that are cracked or broken. Most states require vehicles to have functioning turn signals as well as two functioning headlights and taillights. Taillights must illuminate red; if a taillight is cracked, it can give off a white light which is also typically a traffic violation.
Cracked windshield. If a windshield is cracked, discolored or tinted in a way that obstructs vision, drivers may get ticketed and fined. In some states, vehicle modifications, such as tinted windows, are prohibited.
License plates are unreadable. If the license plate light is out or if the plate is otherwise unreadable, drivers may be pulled over. In some states this includes clear or tinted plastic license plate covers.
Loud exhaust system. A defective exhaust system that is too loud, either because it has been modified or because it needs repairs, can be cause for a ticket. What is considered loud depends on the state.

Many states also require periodic vehicle safety inspections. For an overview by state, visit Safety Inspection - AAA Digest of Motor Laws at https://drivinglaws.aaa.com/tag/safety-inspection.

Put a Stop to Brake Trouble Before School Starts

BETHESDA, MD · Aug. 1, 2018

A properly operating brake system is critical to safe vehicle operation and control under a variety of conditions. "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."

Brakes are a normal wear item for any car and eventually they're going to need to be replaced. If your car is pulling to the left or right, or if you hear odd noises when you apply the brakes, you should inspect your brakes. Other warning signs include an illuminated brake warning light, brake grabbing, low pedal feel, vibration, hard pedal feel and squealing.

For routine maintenance, check your vehicle's braking system at least once a year. A thorough inspection should include:

brake lining wear,
brake fluid level,
rotor thickness,
condition of hoses and brake lines,
brake and dash warning lights, as well as
taking the car for a test drive to detect other potential brake system problems.

Several factors that affect brake wear include driving habits, operating conditions, vehicle type and the quality of the brake lining material.

Never put off routine brake inspections or any needed repair, such as letting the brakes get to the "metal-to-metal" point, which can be potentially dangerous and lead to a more costly repair bill.