Most people don't realize that even small problems with the way their car is running could be costing them fuel economy. If your car is not running at peak performance then you are loosing gas and money every time you drive it. A few simple things to look for on a regular basis may prevent problems with your car can affect your gas mileage. In addition to saving gas by keeping your car running at its best, you might also be preventing costly repair bills in the future. More important than either of these is that you will be keeping your car as safe as it can be. You may prevent a critical failure that could result in an accident. Most maintenance should be left to the professionals. However, once a month you should perform the following checks to help identify and head off problems that can cost you fuel and money down the road: 1. Check the pressure and look for signs of wear in your tires. Check for any objects that may have become embedded in the tire causing air leaks. 2. Check for fluid leaks. Look around the car and especially under the car around the engine. If you see fluid then you should attempt to identify it. One way is by its color. Coolant is a bright yellowish green color, Transmission fluid is usually pink, Oil is black and brake fluids and power steering fluids are generally clear, with a slight tinge of brown . These fluids are all oily to the touch. 3. Check fluid levels, including engine oil, engine coolant level, transmission fluid and power steering fluid, according to the instructions in the owner's manual. 4. Check under the hood for cracked or leaking radiator hoses and cracked or split spark plug wires. Also check for loose clamps and check the battery for any visible signs of corrosion. 5. Check for problems with the brakes. On a straight, flat and traffic-free stretch of road, rest your hands lightly on the steering wheel and apply the brakes gradually. If the vehicle swerves to one side, one of the brake linings may be worn more than the other, or the brakes may need adjustment. 6. A similar test as performed to test the brakes can be done to test your wheel alignment. Again this needs to be done on a straight, flat and traffic-free road. Rest your hands very lightly on the steering wheel and drive the car forward at a constant but slow speed. If you feel the vehicle pulling to the right or the left, it is a good indication of poor wheel alignment. These are just a few basic checks you can perform on your car monthly. By doing this you will keep your car running at its peak performance. If your car is running at its best, it will save you gas, money and will keep you safe!
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