According to recent studies, 5 percent of all motor vehicle
fatalities are clearly caused by automobile maintenance neglect. The
following simple and inexpensive preventive checks will greatly extend
the life of the vehicle, ensure safer operation and even benefit the
environment
Gas Saving Tips
Check and Replace Air Filters Regularly
Replacing a clogged air filter can improve your car's gas mileage by
as much as 10 percent. Your car's air filter keeps impurities from
damaging the inside of your engine. Not only will replacing a dirty
air filter save gas, it will protect your engine.
Fuel Economy Benefit: up to 10 percent
Equivalent Gasoline Savings: up to $0.29/gallon
Keep Tires Properly Inflated
You can improve your gas mileage by around 3.3 percent by keeping your
tires inflated to the proper pressure. Under-inflated tires can lower
gas mileage by 0.4 percent for every 1 psi drop in pressure of all
four tires. Properly inflated tires are safer and last longer.
Fuel Economy Benefit: up to 3 percent
Equivalent Gasoline Savings: up to $0.09/gallon
Tire Saving Tips
Checking For Wear
The simplest way to check for wear is to do the penny test. Place a
penny inside the tire tread with the top of Lincoln's head facing
towards the tire. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, your tread
is worn and needs replacing. The legal limit for tire tread is 1/16".
Checking Alignment
It's always a good idea to regularly check your tires for proper
alignment. This way, you'll ensure your tires will last the full life
for which they were intended. Ask us for an alignment inspection today.
Checking Tire Pressure
Check your tire pressure monthly when tires are cold. Air pressure
changes 1-2 pounds for every 10 degrees of temperature change. Always
keep the vehicle manufacturer's recommended air pressure in all your
tires. According to recent studies, 5 percent of all motor vehicle
fatalities are clearly caused by automobile maintenance neglect. The
following simple and inexpensive preventive checks will greatly extend
the life of the vehicle, ensure safer operation and even benefit the
environment.
Have all fluids checked, including brake, power steering,
transmission/transaxle, windshield washer solvent and antifreeze.
These fluids play a large role in the safety and performance of the
vehicle.
Keep your engine tuned. A fouled spark plug or plugged/restricted
fuel injector can reduce fuel efficiency as much as 30 percent.
Have the chassis lubricated frequently. This step extends the life
of the moving components of the vehicle's suspension system. (some
vehicles)
Check battery cables and posts for corrosion and clean them as
needed. The battery fluid should also be checked and filled if it is
low, except in the case of maintenance-free batteries.
Have the lighting system checked frequently, including headlights,
turn signals, and brake and tail lights.
Check windshield washer blades for cracks, tears and windshield
contact. Replace them approximately once a year or sooner if streaking
begins.
Inspect engine belts regularly. Worn belts will affect the engine
performance. Look for cracks and missing sections or segments.
Have the air filtration system checked frequently. The air filter
should be checked approximately every other oil change for clogging or
damage.
This system ensures that the vehicle is performing at its peak
condition.
Always consult the vehicle owner's manual for individual service
schedules as manufacturer maintenance requirements vary greatly.
