Make sure lights are in working order

By Doug McAllister

One of the services we provide when a vehicle comes in to my shop for an oil change is a 30-point inspection. The 30-point inspection includes the car's lighting system.

It is amazing how many cars come in with one or more lights on the vehicle that are burned out. As we head into the fall and winter, the days are shorter and we do more driving in the dark, so the lighting on our vehicle becomes more important.

Not only do I see it in the shop but I also see it when I am out driving around. Cars with running lights or brake lights that are out. Quite often I see people driving around with a headlamp that is out.

The next time you take your car in for any service, be sure to request a light check while it's there. If you won't be taking it in for a while, it's easy enough to perform a light check on your own vehicle.

Check them all:

• Headlamps (bright and dim)

• Turn signals (front and back)

• Brake lights (including the high mount)

• All running lights

• Backup lights

• License plate lights

Having all these lights and bulbs in working order makes it easier for you to be seen, and it just might save you a ticket.

• Douglas Automotive is at 417 W. Main St., Barrington; 123 Virginia Road, Crystal Lake; and 416 Northwest Hwy., Fox River Grove. For information, visit douglasautomotive.com. Send questions to underthehood@dailyherald.com.