October is Fall Car Care Month. Why not take a little time to be car care aware and make sure your vehicle is ready for the harsh winter weather ahead? Taking a few simple steps now can save you the headaches and cost of an emergency break-down later, says the Car Care Council.

It’s a common misconception that only car dealers can perform the routine maintenance and repairs on a newer vehicle that is under warranty. In fact, it is law that consumers can patronize their neighborhood repair shop or do the work themselves without violating the manufacturer’s warranty, says the Car Care Council.

The Car Care Council suggests five easy ways to turn your car into a mean, green driving machine – for your wallet and the environment.

While talking cars only appear in the movies, your vehicle can still communicate using its own language. Sounds like squealing, thumping, hissing and grinding are all signs that your vehicle may be trying to tell you something, says the Car Care Council.