According to recent studies, 55 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.
Always consult your owner’s manual, but a good rule of thumb is to have the Oil and Filter changed regularly, every 3,000 to 4,000 miles.
Have all fluids c
hecked, 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. Check tire inflation as stated on the tires. Under-inflated tires can result in a loss of fuel efficiency. This is the least expensive form of preventive and safety maintenance. Tires should be checked once a week and the pressure is stated on the Tire. Don't forget Balance
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.
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.
Now it's time to keep your ac & heater in tip top condition so the AC will work properly, have the AC checked at Markham's for leaks, dirt and trash in front of your radiator, fan clutch working properly to keep the correct amount of air coming across the radiator and ac components. Don't wait to long to have it checked to prevent unnecessary repairs
Maintaining your car is the Key to saving you money. Check air pressure on your tires as stated on the tire, Fuel injection service ,Air filter, Fuel filter, Wheel Alignment, Light on the gas pedal will save enough money to pay for all these services and improve miles per gallon of gasoline you purchase, these tips are very important.
- Do not use the clutch too much. .
- Drive in gear corresponding to the speed.
- Get your vehicle serviced regularly.
- A poorly tuned engine can increase fuel consumption by up to 50%
- Driving at 90 kilometers an hour rather than 100 can reduce fuel consumption by 10%
- Under inflated
tires can increase
fuel
consumption
by 5%
- A loaded roof rack will increase fuel consumption by as much as 5% in highway driving.
- Even an empty roof rack can increase consumption by 1%. If the carrier is not attached to the vehicle, remove it when not in use.
- Avoid "Jack Rabbit" starts, not only do they increase fuel consumption, but are hard on your tires. Anticipating stops and avoiding abrupt stops will decrease fuel consumption and increase the life of your brakes and tires.
- Avoid unnecessary steering wheel movement since each sideward movement of the tire causes fuel-consuming drag.
- Maintain a steady speed.
- Accelerate slowly on gravel or slippery roads.
- Avoid unnecessary
braking
- Reviving the engine just before turning off the ignition costs extra fuel and may cause engine damage.
- Take advantage of rolling resistance rather than heavy braking to help slow you down. This deceleration technique is one of the best for fuel saving.
- Avoid using the air conditioner at lower speeds.
- Changing spark plugs regularly can save a lot of fuel.
