O'Reilly Recommends Regular Maintenance to Improve Safety on the Road This Summer

The long-awaited summer months have finally arrived, and despite the rising price of gas, drivers will be taking to the roads in large numbers. Whether you’re driving cross-country or just across town, take a moment to prepare your vehicle for the warmer weather by performing routine maintenance on its key systems. Many checks and services can be done at little or no cost, so we recommend focusing on the following areas before hitting the road for safe summer travel:

• Brakes. Neglected brakes will ultimately fail, creating an unsafe environment for everyone on the road. Because they are a normal wear item for any car, plan ahead and anticipate a replacement before they lead to a more expensive problem. If you experience dragging, squealing, grinding, pulling or a pulsating brake pedal, have the system checked by a qualified technician as soon as possible.
• Visibility. A clear view of the road is essential when driving. Begin a routine to check your wiper blades for cracks and wear, and replace them immediately if streaking or smearing occurs. It is also imperative that hazard lights, brake lights, headlights and turn signals are working properly, for your benefit as well as the safety of others.
• Belts and hoses. Check and replace belts that appear to be frayed, glazed or cracked, and hoses that are leaking, brittle, rusted, swollen or restricted. Most drivers do not have the proper equipment to check the tightness of these components, so if you suspect they are loose, have a certified mechanic take a look.
• Battery. Your battery should be clean, securely mounted and free of corrosion, and the cable connections should be tight. Avoid getting stranded and the high cost of towing by having your battery tested free of charge at any of our locations.
• Tires. Routinely inspect tires for adequate tread and any damaging marks. Uneven wear, vibrations or pulling to one side indicates serious problems. Check for proper air pressure in your tires for safer driving in any weather, but especially in poor traction conditions.
• Oil and filter. Fresh filters and clean oil are critical to your engine. It is especially important to change the oil during the summer months, when hot weather requires extra lubrication for the engine to function properly. Regular changes will also reveal leaks that, if left untreated, can cause unsafe, low oil levels and engine failure.

The heat, humidity and heavy traffic can take a toll on your vehicle during the summer months, but a little pre-trip planning can help to prevent roadside delays, avoid costly repairs and ensure you and your family arrive at each destination safely and efficiently.

O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. (NASDAQ: ORLY) is one of the largest specialty retailers of automotive aftermarket parts, tools, supplies, equipment and accessories in the United States, serving both the do-it-yourself and professional installer markets. Founded in 1957 by the O’Reilly family, the Company operated 1,867 stores in the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming as of March 31, 2008.