Apr 22 2008
The Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA), the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR), elected leaders, government officials and local consumers gathered today at the state Capitol to launch the DriveHealthy.com campaign.
Founded on the principle that every motorist can help keep the air we breathe clean and healthy through timely vehicle maintenance, DriveHealthy.com educates motorists on how to proactively maintain efficient vehicles.
"Vehicle efficiency and air quality are not mutually exclusive," said Rosario Marin, Secretary of the State and Consumer Services Agency. "This campaign is a great way to get the word out that motorists need to take responsibility for our environment -- maintaining our cars helps clean up our air. By making Californians more aware and knowledgeable about proper vehicle maintenance through DriveHealthy.com, we can make a big difference in our state."
The multi-pronged DriveHealthy.com initiative encompasses community outreach, strategic partnerships and promotions, marketing collateral and a new multi-lingual advertising campaign that was unveiled at the kick-off event.
"The Department of Consumer Affairs' mission is to protect and serve Californians and this educational outreach campaign aims to build consumer confidence in their ability to help protect our environment," said Director Carrie Lopez. "California has more registered vehicles than any other state, which means we are at greater risk of living with dangerous levels of smog. The launch of this important campaign by the Bureau of Automotive Repair is a step in the right direction."
Every day, thousands of poorly maintained vehicles travel California's streets and highways. These vehicles are often the greatest contributors to air pollution. In fact, a poorly maintained vehicle can release as much as ten times the emissions of a well-maintained vehicle of the same make and model. Engaging in proper vehicle care and maintenance so vehicles run cleaner means we can all breathe cleaner, healthier air.
"California's current car-dependant lifestyle has led to a dramatic increase in health risks," said Bureau of Automotive Repair Chief Sherry Mehl. "DriveHealthy.com empowers California drivers to help clean up the state's air by properly maintaining their vehicles."
Quick Maintenance Tips
- Change engine oil and air, oil and fuel filters and manufacturer's suggested intervals.
- Perform all other service and maintenance at manufacturer's suggested intervals.
- Check tire pressure frequently.
- Check tire condition for abnormal wear patterns.
- Inspect hoses, wiring and belts regularly.
- Service engine promptly when warning lights appear.
- Never modify your vehicle's emission control system.
For additional maintenance tips, or for more details about the new DriveHealthy.com campaign, please visit http://www.DriveHealthy.com. For further information about the Smog Check program, or to obtain information about retiring polluting vehicles or receiving state financial aid to repair vehicles that have failed Smog Check, call 1-800-952-5210 or visit http://www.smogcheck.ca.gov. Help is available in more than 170 languages, including Spanish, Vietnamese, Cantonese, Hmong, Tagalog and Russian.