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M&A / DRIVER EDUCATION

Auto Academy

Know your car. Plan your next step.

Practical tips to spot problems, prepare for service and keep track of your vehicle.

Road tires and deep-tread tires stacked outside a tire workshop.
Tuccera LLC · Unsplash License
M&A / Auto Academy

Maryland vehicle inspector training

Build your knowledge of inspection administration and passenger-vehicle safety. Study the rules, practice original questions, and understand why each answer matters.

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DC · MARYLAND · VIRGINIA

Automotive history: the machines, the roads, the people

Explore how automobiles changed daily life, industry, and communities—from early inventions to the roads and repair culture of Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia.

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FOR EVERY DRIVER

Car care, made simple.

Open a topic for quick checks and your next step.

01Tires & pressureSmall checks can catch tire problems early.
  • Check cold tire pressure against the vehicle’s door-jamb label.
  • Look for uneven wear, cuts, bulges or objects in the tread.
  • Have repeated air loss, pulling or vibration inspected.
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02Oil & essential fluidsThe right fluid matters as much as the level.
  • Use your owner’s manual for oil and fluid specifications.
  • Check levels as instructed, parked safely on level ground.
  • Report repeated top-ups, fresh leaks or a burning smell.
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03Brakes & stoppingPay attention to changes in how your car stops.
  • Report grinding, squealing, vibration or pulling when braking.
  • Tell your advisor if the pedal feels different from usual.
  • If braking ability suddenly changes, stop driving when safe and arrange assistance.
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04Battery & startingA slow start deserves a closer look.
  • Notice slow cranking, clicking or repeated jump-starts.
  • Switch off lights and accessories when leaving the vehicle.
  • Ask for battery and charging-system testing when problems repeat.
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05Dashboard warning lightsCapture the warning and what you noticed.
  • Photograph the light and message when safely parked.
  • Note when it appeared and whether the car sounded or felt different.
  • For oil-pressure or overheating warnings, pull over safely and switch off the engine.
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06Cooling & overheatingRespond promptly to a rising temperature.
  • Watch for a rising temperature gauge, steam or coolant leaks.
  • If the engine overheats, pull over safely and turn it off.
  • Never open a coolant cap while the engine is hot.
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07Wipers, lights & visibilityGive yourself a clear view of the road.
  • Replace wipers that streak, chatter or miss part of the windshield.
  • Check headlights, brake lights, turn signals and tag lights.
  • Use washer fluid suited to the weather.
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08Before a longer driveLeave time to address concerns before departure.
  • Check tires, fluid levels, lights and wipers.
  • Review upcoming maintenance in your owner’s manual and service history.
  • Bring up new noises, vibrations or warning lights before the trip.
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BUSINESS & FLEET

Keep vehicles ready for the next job.

Keep maintenance, costs and driver reports organized for every vehicle.

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