|
|
Auto maintenance that will keep your clunker running efficiently
Caring for Your Clunker
Home
Home and Auto
Automobiles
Maintenance
Caring for Your Clunker
(NAPSA) - Cash for Clunkers was a popular trade-in program, but it was not an option everyone could take advantage of, either because these motorists did not own cars that qualified as clunkers or they could not afford to buy a new car. For those who did not opt for this program, the best economic alternative is to keep your current vehicle running as efficiently as possible. Over a four-year period, the savings difference in keeping a car over buying a new one can add up to $10,000, say experts at the Car Care Council. To ensure reliability and safety and extend vehicle life, the council recommends these preventive auto maintenance steps:
- Change the oil and filter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or per the owner's manual. Periodic oil and filter changes keep your engine clean on the inside.
- Check the tire pressure at least monthly, including the spare. Your car's tires affect its ride, handling, traction and safety.
- Schedule a tune-up annually to optimize your car's performance. A well-tuned engine delivers the best balance of power and fuel economy, and produces the lowest level of emissions.
- Have the alignment checked at least annually. Potholes and other road conditions, as well as normal wear, can take their toll on your car's steering and suspension. A wheel alignment reduces tire wear, improves fuel economy and handling, and increases driving enjoyment and safety.
- Inspect the windshield wipers and lights on the car. Lights and wipers play a major role in safe driving and they are normal wear items that need periodic replacement.
The Car Care Council is the source of information for the Be Car Care Aware consumer education campaign, promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council's "Car Care Guide" or for more information, visit www.carcare.org
Take the Next Step
- Reduce the cost of your gasoline with a 'gas card'. You can compare them here.
Share your thoughts about this article with the editor: Click Here
Subscribe to TDS Newsletters
Join over 250,000 other subscribers!
To subscribe, check the newsletters you wish to receive, enter your email address and then click Subscribe.
View the TDS privacy policy.
Get free money-saving articles in your inbox!
Sign up for our free weekly eNewsletter Surviving Tough Times.
Looking for an answer to a frugal living question? Click here to ask a
Dollar Stretcher Stretchpert!
Copyright 1996 - 2013 "The Dollar Stretcher, Inc." All rights reserved unless specifically noted.
Contact the Dollar Stretcher at:
Dollar Stretcher
PO Box 14160
Bradenton FL 34280
941-761-7805
"The Dollar Stretcher, Inc." does not assume responsibility for advice given. All advice should be weighed against your own abilities and circumstances and applied accordingly. It is up to the reader to determine if advice is safe and suitable for their own situation.
| About Us | Privacy Policy | Writer's Guidelines | Sponsorship | Media | Contact Us |