Midas Franchise Keeps Your Car in Check This Labor Day

Midas
Published: August 25th, 2010

The Car Coach(R) Lauren Fix Offers Tips for End-of-Summer Road Trips

ITASCA, Ill. (BUSINESS WIRE) -- As California motorists take to the road this Labor Day, Midas is teaming up with nationally known Car Coach(R) Lauren Fix to offer tips to help keep your vehicle safe and reliable. Getting your car ready in advance of a road trip will not only help save money, but create peace of mind.

"Labor Day marks the 'unofficial' end of summer and many people will be hitting the road to get in one last summer road trip," said Fix. "Taking proper care of your car before leaving the driveway is the first step towards a safe trip."

Together with Fix, Midas suggests the following safety tips to make the most of end-of-the-summer travel.

• Check all fluids, hoses and belts - There are several fluids that should be checked including engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission fluids, windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant. Broken belts can cause overheating, electrical and steering system failure, leading to roadside breakdowns. Ask your local Midas shop for a complimentary multi-point visual Courtesy Check which will tell you about your car's condition and can help identify safety concerns.
• Get your tires ready for the road - Make sure your tires are properly inflated and watch for worn or uneven tread wear. Follow your owner's manual for guidance on proper tire rotation. Your local Midas shop can help rotate and balance your tires.
• Check wipers - Wiper blades should be replaced every six months. Make sure the windshield wipers are working properly and keep the reservoir filled with washer fluid.
• Use your cell phone with caution - The state of California prohibits the use of cell phones by drivers unless the driver is using a hands-free device or making an emergency call. Midas suggests pulling off to a designated parking area to use your cell phone if needed during the road trip.
• Watch your gas gauge - To save fuel, take direct routes, minimize side trips and keep a steady speed. A well-tuned engine, properly inflated tires and reduced speed can result in noticeable fuel savings.

Midas has also partnered with The National Safety Council in support of "Alive at 25," an interactive online course that helps parents reinforce basic driving skills, encourage good decision making and build skills to help teens become safe, responsible and defensive drivers.

ABOUT MIDAS

Midas is one of the world's largest providers of automotive service, offering brake, maintenance, tires, exhaust, steering and suspension services at more than 2,400 franchised, licenses and company-owned Midas shops in 16 countries including more than 1,600 in the United States and Canada. Midas also owns the SpeeDee Oil Change business with 170 auto service centers in the United States and Mexico.

SOURCE: Midas, Inc.