Maximizing Your Car's Potential

A little extra care here and there when it comes to your car, and you'll find
yourself saving loads of money - not just on repairs, but on fuel as well!

Keep your engine tuned up. A misfiring spark plug can reduce fuel efficiency as
much as 30 percent. This means less money in your wallet. Follow the service
schedules listed in your owner's manual. Replace filters and fluids as
recommended.

I know it doesn't always fit into your schedule. You just have to make yourself
do it. If the dealer is charging an arm and a leg for a tune-up, get a second
opinion at a local reputable car repair shop. They can do the same service
schedule, usually at a greater savings to you.

These tune-ups not only keep your car running smoothly, but they'll help when
you're ready for a newer vehicle. A smooth running car means a better trade in
value for you.

Check your tires for proper inflation. Under-inflation actually wastes fuel. It
causes your engine to work harder to push the vehicle. Wheels that are
out-of-line (as evidenced by uneven tread wear or vehicle pulling) make the
engine work harder, too. Keep those tires inflated properly, and you will save
when you fill up.

Drive gently. Avoid sudden accelerations and the jerky stop-and-go routine.
(Pass the barf bag, please!) Use cruise-control on open highways to keep your
speed as steady as possible.

Avoid excessive idling. Shut off the engine while waiting for friends and
family. Today's vehicles are designed to "warm up" fast, so there's no need to
warm your car up for half an hour on cold winter mornings.

Keep your air conditioner in top condition.

Remove extra items from the vehicle. Less weight means better mileage. Storing
luggage in the trunk rather than on the roof reduces air drag. All these little
things add up.

Plan your daily errands to eliminate unnecessary driving. Try to travel when
traffic is light to avoid stop-and-go conditions.

Join a car pool. At least, ask if someone wants to share a ride if you're just
headed one place and then back.

Remember, how you drive your car, and how its fluids, old parts, and tires are
disposed of all affect the environment. So take good care of your baby! Go the
extra mile for it, and it will run the extra miles for you!

Additional Resources: