Maintenance That Pays Off
- Follow the factory schedule in your owner’s manual for tune‑ups and inspections — it preserves performance and fuel economy.
- Use the manufacturer‑recommended oil grade. Using the wrong viscosity can reduce mileage; the correct grade can improve fuel economy by about 1–2% if you were using the wrong one.
- Fix dashboard warnings quickly. A glowing check‑engine or brake warning means stop guessing and get a scan/inspection.
Tires: Pressure, Rotation & Alignment
- Check tire pressure monthly when “cold.” Use the door‑jamb placard (not the sidewall max). Proper inflation improves safety, tread life, and fuel use.
- Rotate on schedule and align as needed. Uneven wear or a pulling wheel signals an alignment check and possible suspension inspection.
- Mind your load and speed ratings. Overloading or sustained high‑speed driving generates heat and accelerates wear.
Choose the Right Fuel
- Use the octane your manual calls for. Most vehicles are built for regular 87. Premium offers no benefit in engines designed for regular.
- Seal the system. Make sure your gas cap is present and tight to prevent evaporation losses and emissions.
Smart Habits That Save Gas
- Avoid extended idling. Modern engines don’t need long warm‑ups; shut down if you’ll be stopped for a while.
- Smooth driving. Moderate acceleration, steady speeds, and looking ahead to avoid hard braking all pay dividends.
- Cut weight and drag. Empty the trunk, remove unused roof racks, and close windows at highway speeds; use A/C reasonably.
Fluids & Visibility
- Brake fluid, coolant, power steering, and washer fluid should be checked routinely; replace coolant and brake fluid on schedule.
- Wiper blades & lights: Replace streaky blades and burnt bulbs promptly; you can’t fix what you can’t see.
Quick Checklist
- Monthly: tire pressures (including spare), exterior lights, washer fluid.
- Every oil change: inspect brakes, battery terminals/cables, belts, hoses, and filters.
- Seasonal: test A/C performance, check coolant strength before winter, inspect wipers.