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Car and Driver Care
Tips
Despite Technology, Drivers Need to be Smart About Maintaining Their
Vehicles
(Newstream) -- No matter how advanced today's vehicles are,
they can't take care of themselves, says Bill Maxwell, senior
engineering advisor, ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company.
"Even with today's newest technology, basic automobile maintenance can
help ensure your vehicle a long, healthy life," says Maxwell. "Today's
drivers have the latest automotive advances at their fingertips, but
even the most advanced technologies don't reduce the need for basic
maintenance on your vehicle.
"But simple tasks such as routinely checking and changing the oil,
checking tire pressure, and changing your air filter can keep your
vehicle performing at its best, and help protect and prolong its life."
As part of its 30th anniversary, Mobil 1 -- the world's leading
synthetic motor oil, is providing drivers with 30 helpful car
maintenance and driving tips.
30 Tips for Car Owners
1. Read the manual - Take time to read your drivers' manual and become
familiar with the manufacturers recommendations.
2. Check the battery - If a battery is older than four years, it may
only work well in warm weather.
3. Don't get stranded - Always keep your cell phone charged and carry a
set of jumper cables or portable power pack in case you are lost or
stranded, however, you should not use your cell phone while driving.
4. Check your antifreeze - Check the antifreeze levels on a weekly
basis. If the level drops regularly and there are no signs of an
external leak, your engine has an internal leak that must be fixed to
prevent major engine damage.
5. Save fuel - Avoid unnecessary abrupt braking and speed-ups as it can
increase fuel economy by up to two miles per gallon.
6. Switch to synthetic oil - If you currently use conventional oil,
switching to a synthetic oil like Mobil 1 will help your car operate
more efficiently helping your engine to run cleaner and prevent harmful
sludge build-up and deposits.
7. Let it idle - Allow your engine to idle for a few seconds before
driving in cold weather to ensure proper engine oil flow and
lubrication.
8. Check the air pressure - Check and fill tires to manufacturer
recommended pressure; low tire pressure increases wear and fuel
consumption. If a tire loses pressure regularly, it probably has a
puncture or defective valve, which must be fixed.
9. Check the tread - When tires become too worn or unevenly worn, it can
signal a wheel alignment problem or worn front-end parts.
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