rEb8_XZcUQrBxBfG3wkSsHdRA0w May 2010 | TIPS FOR YOUR CAR l cartips2u

Gas-Saving Maintenance Tips


Today's cars are pretty simple. Put gas in them, change the oil and you're pretty much set. After all, modern cars have become almost maintenance-free because consumers don't want to spend time keeping their car in working order.

What Really Saves Gas?

Lower Speeds Saves Gas

Remember a thing called the speed limit? On most highways it is either 100 or 110kph. How fast are the cars and trucks around you going? From 120kph to 150kph. These people are wasting a lot of gas for the chance to get there a little earlier. Factor in safety concerns and a speeding ticket once or twice a year and going fast is a costly proposition.


Check engine oil at every other fill-up

For an accurate reading, follow this procedure:

* Run or drive your car for about 15 minutes to warm the oil; then park the car in a level place.Turn off the engine and wait 15 minutes to allow the oil in the engine to drain back to the oil pan.

* Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean with a paper towel or rag. Reinsert the dipstick, being sure to push it in all the way, then pull it out again to check the oil level. It should be somewhere between the hash marks on the dipstick.

* Add the type and amount of oil as specified in your owner's manual, if necessary.

Have wheel alignment checked


Have your car's wheel alignment checked every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), or as recommended in your owner's manual. Also have it checked after buying new tires and when you replace a rack-and-pinion steering unit or other steering parts. Improper tire alignment will shorten the life of your tires as well as cause poor handling. If your steering is stiffer than normal or the vehicle pulls to one side, you probably have an alignment problem.

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