Keeping Cars Up And Running

By performing some basic maintenance on a regular basis, you can keep your car in good running condition and avoid costly fixes. AnnaMaria Andriotis of SmartMoney.com explains.

Saving money begins at the pump. Andriotis says you should use the recommended gas grade for your vehicle type. "Most cars... will take regular gas, but if you have a luxury car of a sports car, chances are, you're going to need to put a premium level of gas," says Andriotis. "These engines are a bit more sophisticated - they require a bit more power to run. Not using that gas can actually harm your engine, decrease its efficiency and lead to a shorter life span for your car." While higher grade gas is more expensive up front, you'll save money in repairs in the long run.

Also, calm down, reign in your road rage and go easy on the brakes. Agressive braking can lead to wear and tear, which means you'll have to replace your brakes more often. "Replacing an entire brake could cost you somewhere around $200 or even more," says Andriotis. Try replacing your own brake pads instead of going to the shop, but do your best to change your driving habits, too.

Tire pressure is also key. Overinflated or underinflated tires are more prone to blow outs and your tires won't wear as evenly. Tire pressure is also tied to fuel efficiency. You can save money on gas by simply keeping your tires properly inflated. Check your owner's manuel to see how many pounds of pressure should be in your tires. Try to check your tire pressure once a month; pressure can be affected by temperature, driving habits and leaks. You can also rotate your tires every 5,000 miles or so to ensure even wear.

Keep an eye on your windshield washer fluid and wiper blades, too. Wiper blades that leave streaks are a signal that it's time to get a new set. Any automotive department or store should sell them, and they're very easy to replace yourself. Most blades just snap off and the new set snaps into place. Washer fluid is also very simple to replace. Just check under the hood to see how much fluid is left. If it's low, buy a gallon and fill up the washer fluid container. This will ensure you always have fluid when you need it.

A clean air filter increases your engine's energy efficiency. "You want to check them every few months," says Andriotis. "Air filters often get clogged up with dirt, sand - even bugs," adds Andriotis, which can restrict air flow to your engine. This makes your engine work harder to power your car. To replace an air filter, simply pop the old filter out and insert the new one. They usually run about $15.00 at auto parts stores.

Fixing small scratches can keep your car's overall appearance looking like new. Instead of taking your car to a body shop to have them repair a scratch, consider buying a small can of car paint and covering the scratch yourself. "A bottle of paint? Six dollars," says Andriotis.

For more information on keeping your car in great running condition, visit www.SmartMoney.com.

By Erin Petrun