With the average price of gas dipping below two dollars per gallon for the first time since 2009, many motorists have been seeing a real savings at the pump. Putting some of that savings toward basic auto care can lead to more miles per gallon and, in turn, more savings, says the non-profit Car Care Council.
The Car Care Council encourages motorists to be car care aware and perform these five simple steps to improve fuel economy and save money.
- Check Tire Pressure: Keep tires properly inflated and improve gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent.
- Use the Right Motor Oil: Improve gas mileage by 1 to 2 percent by using the grade of motor oil recommended by the manufacturer.
- Replace Clogged Air Filters: Replacing clogged air filters on older vehicles can improve fuel economy and will improve performance and acceleration on all vehicles.
- Check Engine Performance: Keep your engine running efficiently and improve gas mileage by an average of 4 percent.
- Fix It: Addressing a serious maintenance problem, like a faulty oxygen sensor, can improve mileage by as much as 40 percent, according to www.fueleconomy.gov.