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!
About the Author:
This article provided courtesy of
http://www.car-audio-shopper.com
