It’s not always a dire situation when that little light turns on that tells us to “check engine”. Sometimes it’s a simple and inexpensive fix. Here are a few things that it could be that are not a big deal!
· Repair/replace battery charging system: Batteries have become more sophisticated over the past few years, so now their monitoring systems are very likely to switch on the check engine light.
· Bad spark plug: It’s an easy fix, but make sure you take it in quickly. Your car won’t be running on an efficient engine unless all your spark plugs are functional.
· Loose Fuel Cap: This is no brainer. If your fuel cap is ill-fitting gas can evaporate. Just get one that fits and you’ll be good to go!
Of course there are other, more costly, reasons your check engine light could be on, so always make sure to take it in to your mechanic for a diagnosis (just to be safe).
- Pick up your phone: If you know a veteran or the family of a veteran, call them. Let them know how much you appreciate their/their loved ones sacrifice for our country.
- Tweet: We all love to tweet, so use it for a good cause! If you use the hashtag #wearegrateful, it will be printed out on postcards and distributed to distributed to our troops.
- Fly a flag: Put that flag up outside your house! It shows that you are thinking about those that have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
1) Choose a Reliable Vehicle:
It’s important to read consumer reviews and reports. A vehicle may look shiny and be enticing with fancy features but sometimes you may end up with a lemon if you’re not careful. Always make sure that you do your research and ask for a service record!
2) Find a Mechanic You Trust:
Not all mechanics are trustworthy and will sometimes charge/overcharge you for services you don’t need. There are also many mechanics out there that are honest, hardworking and have your best interest at heart. Once you find one, establish a long-term relationship with them. Having a good go-to mechanic will save you A LOT of money in the long run.
3) Always Stay Up to Date on Your Preventative Maintenance:
This means oil changes, tire rotations, breaks, alignments, and fluid changes. It may seem expensive, but trust me; the consequences of avoiding preventative maintenance will be much more detrimental to your pocket book.
1) Write her a letter: Not just any letter, but one that really let’s her know how much you appreciate her. Be very specific on the all of the things you are thankful for, and make sure she knows how much you love her!
2) Create a favorite things basket: Include her favorite candies, movies, photos and maybe even some flowers.
3) Spend the entire day with her: You know your mom loves spending time with you! Clear your schedule for the day and hang out with her. Maybe go see a movie or just spend time with her around the house.
1) Get Your Shut Eye: We all get a little grumpy when we’re exhausted. A lot of the time this grumpiness gets taken out on the drivers around us. Enough sleep= happier driving.
2) Your Car is Not a Refuge: It’s tempting to take a drive “just to blow off some steam”. Though it may seem like a good idea at the time, it never really is. Getting in your car when you’re stressed or angry can spell trouble for you and the people around you.
3) Turn Down the Jams: Listening to music in your car can be relaxing when you listen to slower music or even talk radio. The problem stems from when you listen to music with the bass turned up too loud, or listen to aggressive music. Aggressive music= aggressive driving. Keep calm, others drivers will thank you for it.
