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 for 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 tension
• 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:

• Check 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 can 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