The Value Of Preventive Maintenance by Pat Goss (NAPSA)—If you want to save money down the road, take care of your auto now. It is estimated that every preventive maintenance dollar spent today can potentially save eight dollars in future repairs. Because cars of today are lasting longer and people are curbing their spending in a tight economy, it’s important to make sure your car stays in top form by investing in preventive maintenance. * Change Motor Oil (Check your owner’s manual for specific manufacturer recommendations. Most recommend every three months or 3,000 miles)—Motoroil left in an engine too long can lead to deposit and sludge build-up in your engine, reducing your vehicle’s performance and ultimately engine life. So, changing youroil regularly is important. If you haven't had regular oil changes in the past, or if you want to ensure your engine stays clean, there are new typesof oil formulated to help keep engines cleaner, longer. For example, ExxonMobil makes a class of synthetic blend motoroils, ealled Mobil Drive Clean Plus, which help prevent deposit formation, safely clean away sludge, and restore engine performance. * Rotate Tires (every 7,500 miles or every other oil change)— Tire rotation makesall four tires wear more evenly, leading to longer life. Regular rotation may doubletirelife. * Change Fuel Filter (yearly or as needed)—Fuel filters tend to largely be overlooked leading to poor performance and possible damageto fuel system components. * Check/Service Battery (yearly or as needed)—Takethe bat- Mechanics estimate every dollar spent in preventive maintenance saves abouteight dollars down the road. tery out of a car and every part is rendered useless. Without a battery even the radio is mute. Clean, tight battery cable connections are vital to prevent costly and inconvenient electrical system malfunctions. * Check/Service Air Conditioning (every spring)—Asair conditioning is used somerefrigerant is lost. Over time the lost refrigerant will be replaced with air and moisture—both of which are harmful to air conditioner parts. Yearly checks catch problems early to help prevent big repairbills. For more information visit www.exxonmobil.com. * Mr. Gossis a well-known and respected expert on car care and maintenance. Best-known for his role as co-host of the weekly television series “MotorWeek,” his common sense approach has helped millions of car owners understand and have confidence in their cars.
