1. Take it to the car wash -- Cleaning your car at home seems to make sense, particularly from a cost vantage point. However, youll go through more water at home than what a car wash uses and youll also risk scratching your car by using towels not designed to do the job. Visit your local car wash and buy coupon books to get more washes for less money.
2. Leave the lights on -- Some cars come with daytime running lights, which means your headlamps are always on from the moment you engage the ignition until you turn it off. For everyone else, headlamps kept on even on a sunny day provide better warning to other drivers of your proximity, thereby reducing the risk of an accident.
3. Change your oil less frequently -- Youve heard the one about oil changes every three months or 3,000 miles, right? Well, that information is no longer accurate. Modern cars can go at least 5,000 miles between oil changes with no harm to your engine. Check your owners manual for the precise maintenance intervals and be prepared to save yourself some money.
4. Use a tuner chip -- So-called aftermarket parts can help your car perform better. A super tuner or super chip can help your cars engine perform better, by upping the horsepower without hurting fuel economy. Check with your mechanic for the tuner or chip that is right for your car.
5. Empty the trunk -- Once winter ends, you dont need that 40-pound bag of kitty litter, the shovel and all of the other stuff you keep in your car. It isnt too difficult to carry an extra 50 to 200 pounds onboard. Lose the extra stuff and your gas mileage will improve.
6. Tackle the crack -- The moment your windshield gets a nick, plan on taking care of the problem before it worsens. Neglect the nick and youll have to replace the entire windshield, costing you hundreds of dollars. Fill the crevice with an optically matched resin that should keep cracks from occurring. Your insurance company may waive the deductible if the repair is small.
7. Replace aged tires -- Your cars tires may not be worn, but they may have aged out. Tires that are seven or eight years old should be replaced even if they havent been worn out. You may not see visible signs of wear, but that doesnt mean that the rubber is still able to bring your car to a safe stop.
Final Thoughts
As with any car, get to know your drivers manual. That book, found in your glove compartment, can offer much guidance on how to maintain your car, saving you money and keeping your safe on the road.
Matthew C. Keegan is editor and publisher of "Auto Trends Magazine." Matt is also a contributing writer for Andys Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including Magnaflow Exhaust and H&R Springs.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matthew_Keegan 
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