I’ve been reading through some car repair information from Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center. Specifically, these are statistics from cars that were towed to an AAA affiliated repair facility and track the kind of repairs that were done.  This is useful information so that motorists can identify maintenance and do repairs to prevent break downs from happening in the first place.

This is data from 6466 completed repairs from the repair facilities in Southern California, from mid-2008 to 2010. I believe these stats can be useful for Hawaii drivers.

The average cost of repairs, including incidental maintenance, like an oil change that might have been done at the same time, was $629.

The most common repairs needed on towed vehicles were fuel pump (543), alternator (347), battery (308), starter (277), radiator (216), transmission (194), and hoses (168). 

Motorists can avoid many of these breakdowns by taking some preventative steps:

• Fuel pump life can be extended by avoiding driving with the fuel level below 1/8 tank and by changing the fuel filter according to manufacturer’s recommendations (often every 30,000 miles).
   
• Batteries should be tested (once or twice per year) by a qualified technician after they reach 3 years of age. When the battery becomes weak, it should be replaced before it fails. Also, battery life can be extended by keeping the terminals clean and by being sure the water is always filled on non-sealed batteries.
   
• Radiators and transmissions will last longer if you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for coolant/lubricant changes. Be sure to use the correct fluids as specified by the manufacturer.
   
• Hoses and belts can be inspected visually. Replace cracked or frayed belts and hoses that are bulging, seeping, or are exceedingly brittle or mushy. These should be changed according to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule regarding mileage or length of service.
   
• Tire inflation pressure should be checked at least once per month when the tires are cold. Use the manufacturer’s recommended inflation settings (not the number on the tire sidewall). These values can be found on a label located in the driver side door jamb, glove box, or fuel filler flap. Rotate your tires according to the schedule and pattern in the owner’s manual. These steps will enhance the durability of your tires, while improving your fuel economy, handling and safety. Tread depth should be periodically checked, and when the tread gets low, the tires should be replaced.

Breaking down on the side-of-the-road, or even in your driveway is always a stressful situation. Some instances are unavoidable, but you can reduce your chances of having these experiences by following all of the vehicle maintenance recommendations in your owner’s manual. I recommend periodic vehicle inspection by a qualified technician, and I also recommend an AAA Approved Auto Repair facility.

Safe driving!

Darryl