CAR CARE CORNER Preventive Maintenance Is Key To Saving Down The Road by Matthew Marquez

(NAPSI)-Your vehicle is one of the biggest investments you'll make, so protecting it by keeping up with its maintenance needs is important. While everyone is looking for ways to cut costs, denying your vehicle regular maintenance could end up costing you more money down the road from unexpected repairs. Regular oil changes can help ensure that your vehicle runs properly and stays on the road longer. However, it's important to understand and consider the conditions in which you operate your vehicle. According to a Harris Interactive poll, 92 percent of drivers operate under "severe" conditions. Cars operated under severe conditions, including inclement weather, need maintenance more frequently--sometimes twice as often. It's important to check your owner's manual for service recommendations based on the conditions you drive under. Affordable Maintenance Some drivers may be inclined to perform vehicle maintenance themselves to save money and time; however, quick lubes can offer a solution for your vehicle's needs when you may not have the time or expertise to do it yourself. Quick lubes offer the speed and convenience that dealerships often lack and can provide value beyond a simple oil change. Jiffy Lube, for example, offers its Jiffy Lube Signature Service® Oil Change that includes more than a dozen services such as a tire pressure check and fluid top-offs, among others. Most drivers also don't realize that they don't need to visit their dealership to maintain their warranty. Quick Tips Keeping your vehicle on a sound preventive maintenance program is a good way to prevent potentially costly repairs--keeping money in your pocket. Here are some key things to have checked regularly: • Engine air filter--The air filter is like the vehicle's lungs, and a clean filter will maximize the engine's performance. Refer to your owner's manual to see when it should be swapped out. • Engine oil and filter--Engine oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle, helping it run smoothly. Check the oil level regularly and check your owner's manual to learn when to change the oil and which grade to use. Using the proper grade can increase fuel economy, while regular oil changes can increase your vehicle's longevity. • Tire pressure--Tires, like your shoes, are where the rubber meets the road. Under- or overinflation can weaken your tires, reduce traction and impact gas mileage, among other things. You can find the proper tire pressure in the vehicle owner's manual or on a decal in the doorjamb or glove compartment. • Tire rotation--Rotating tires as recommended by the manufacturer will help tires wear more evenly, helping extend their life. For more information, visit www.jiffylube.com. • Mr. Marquez is Vice President of Operations at Bay State Ventures, a Jiffy Lube franchise. % Editor's Note: This article was funded and reviewed by Jiffy Lube International.

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