The primary job of your vehicle's battery is to help start the engine. It also stores energy generated by the alternator and runs the secondary electrical systems, or additional components, in your vehicle. To help you take care of your battery, Goodyear Retailers:

• Tighten loose hold-down clamps and terminals
• Remove corrosion
• Check the alternator belt tension and wear

Belts and hoses are extremely important to your vehicle. If they fail, your vehicle could break down. To help prevent this, make sure your belts and hoses are checked at regular intervals. An easy way to remember is to have them checked every 3,000 miles or with every oil change at your Goodyear Retailer.

During belt inspection, technicians at Goodyear Retailers check each belt for:

• Glazing, cracking, peeling and softening.
• Proper tensioning.
• Proper drive pulley alignment.

During a hose inspection, technicians at Goodyear Retailers:

• Check for leaks.
• Check for hardening, cracking and softening.
• Perform a cooling system pressure test to help check for leaks.

Brakes are one of the most important components on your vehicle. You need the confidence of knowing that when you press your foot to the brake, your vehicle is going to stop. That's why it's important to keep these tips in mind to help keep your brakes functioning properly:

• Have your brakes checked by your Goodyear Retailer at least once a year – more often if you drive frequently in city traffic or hilly areas.
• Never drive with the parking brake on.
• If you hear a high-pitched squeak when you use the brakes, have them checked.
• If you hear a scratching or grinding noise when not braking, this also can be a sign of a brake or bearing issue and should be inspected immediately.
• Check your brake fluid along with other car fluids. If you have to add fluid more than once every few months, you may have a leak.

The driveline of your vehicle takes the power generated by the engine and transforms it into the rotation of the wheels and the speed of the vehicle. Here are some tips for maintaining your driveline:

• Watch and maintain the proper level of transmission fluid.
• Ask a technician at a Goodyear Retailer to inspect your CV and universal joints for loss of lubricant or excessive movement.
• Bring your vehicle in for a test drive to check for any noises or vibration taking place during acceleration that could indicate a joint problem.

Your vehicle's electrical system is made up of a complex network of circuits that create, store and distribute energy where it's needed. Much of your electrical system maintenance can be done through Goodyear Retailers.

During a battery inspection, technicians at Goodyear Retailers check:

• Overall car battery and case condition
• Cable connections
• Hold-down hardware

Checking the starter includes:

• Inspecting cable connections
• Inspecting mounting bolts and brackets
• Performing a Starter Electrical Draw to check the amount of electricity needed to turn the engine over

Checking the alternator includes:

• Conducting an overall visual inspection
• Inspecting the drive belt
• Inspecting the mounting brackets
• Testing electrical connections
• Testing the charging system to ensure that the alternator current and voltage meet the manufacturer's specifications

Today's vehicles are equipped with highly sophisticated electronic engine control systems. The computer receives information from a network of sensors and switches that tells your ignition, fuel and emission control systems what to do. At the first sign of any engine problems, such as rough running, low fuel economy, failure to pass an emissions test or dashboard warning lights, be sure to get service as soon as possible. By tapping into your vehicle's computer, technicians at Goodyear Retailers can check a multitude of engine components, including:

• Ignition system
• Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
• Restraint systems
• Fuel injection system
• Emissions
• Electrical

Every vehicle needs several automotive fluids in order to run properly. Some of the most important fluids include engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, antifreeze and power steering fluid. Bring your vehicle to a Goodyear Retailer to make sure your vehicle's fluids are:

• Filled to the proper level
• Clean and clear
• Not leaking

To keep warm and cozy or cool and comfortable, it's best to maintain your heating and air conditioning systems with the help of your Goodyear Retailer.

A thorough inspection includes:

• Inspecting the interior controls and blower
• Checking radiator coolant level, hoses, pressure cap and thermostat
• Testing the compressor belt
• Checking for leaks or other damage

System testing includes:

• A cooling system pressure test
• Comparing the A/C pressure to manufacturer specifications
• Testing the A/C system for refrigerant leaks
• Checking the interior vent air temperature

Your vehicle relies on oil, lubrication and an oil filter to keep it running smoothly. Every three months or 3,000 miles, your vehicle should be ready for an oil change. Check your owner's manual for specific recommendations for your vehicle. Oil, lube and filter changes at your Goodyear Retailer include:

• Changing the oil filter
• Checking the air filter
• Checking and topping off all fluids under the hood
• Lubricating all fittings
• Checking engine for leaks
• Checking belts and hoses
• Checking tire pressure
• Checking entire undercarriage

Bringing your vehicle to your Goodyear Retailer for regular service is the way for you to save money on automotive costs and save time on easily avoidable mechanical problems. To help keep your car running longer, schedule regular maintenance for tire and manufacturer-recommended engine maintenance. It will help you avoid the problems that cost you extra time and money.

The steering and suspension systems bear the weight of your vehicle, keep the tires on the road and help you experience a smooth, controlled ride. To help make sure your steering and suspension systems are working properly, a technician at a Goodyear Retailer can examine all of your steering and suspension components, including:

• Tie rod ends (inner and outer)
• Idler arm
• Pitman arm
• Rack and pinion unit
• Rack and pinion bellows boots
• Springs
• Shock and/or struts

With some simple maintenance, your tires can help keep your vehicle on the road for thousands of trouble-free miles. Visit a technician at a Goodyear Retailer for:

• Changing a flat tire
• Tire balancing
• Tire installation
• Tire rotation
• Wheel alignment