HINTS & TIPS

According to recent studies, 5 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.

BELIEVE YOU ME: Change your oil and filter

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 checked, 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.

UNDER PRESSURE: Check tire inflation

Check tire inflation. 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 month and rotated every 7,500 miles. Tire pressure varies depending on the kind of tire or vehicle. We recommend using the recommended pressure embossed on the tire itself.

STAY TUNED: Keep your engine tuned

Keep your engine tuned. A fouled spark plug or plugged/restricted fuel injector can reduce fuel efficiency as much as 40 percent. Vehicle manufacturers vary greatly on tune up frequency. As well, most owners' manuals do not take into consideration the extreme temperatures we experience in the Las Vegas area. Our experience has us recommend most vehicles have a tune up procedure at 50,000 to 60,000 miles, then check every 30,000 miles thereafter.

GREASE IS THE WORD: Have the chasis lubricated frequently

Have the chassis lubricated frequently. This step extends the life of the moving components of the vehicle's suspension system.

NEED MORE POWER: Check battery cables

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.

IT'S RAINING AGAIN?: Check wiper blades

Check windshield washer blades for cracks, tears and windshield contact. Replace them approximately once a year or sooner if streaking begins. There is nothing worse than being caught in a downpour and you cannot safey see out of your windshield becuase of pooly working blades.

I CAN'T BREATHE!: Check air filtration system

Have the air filtration system checked frequently. A clogged or dirty air filter can drastically reduce power and efficiency. Most gasoline engines run with a 15 to 1 air/ fuel ratio. So for every gallon of gas you use, you are using 15 gallons of air. If you drive a diesel, that ratio climbs to between 60 and 100 to 1. We recommend the air filter should be checked every other oil change for clogging or damage.