Keaton was getting his oil changed the other day, and realized he doesn’t remember me ever putting something up about vehicle maintenance. He jotted down his top five tips for maintaining your car or truck…. or van… or SUV…

• Have your oil changed every three to four thousand miles or 4 months… which ever comes first… and depending on your driving habits. Most drivers do not know that bad oil can lead to poor gas mileage. This is due to junk building up in your crankshaft. That junk, soon enough, makes it harder for the vehicle to run. The harder your motor has to work the more gas you end up using.
• Make sure your tires are properly filled to the recommended pressure. It is best to check by looking at the tire when you enter and exit the vehicle. Also, be aware that it is recommended to check your tire pressure at the beginning of the summer and winter. This will ensure that temperature is not effecting your tire pressure. Low tire pressure can lead to poor gas mileage and maneuverability issues so stay on top of it or you might end up paying for it.
• Your fuel and ignition system are important parts that need to be maintained regularly. This includes spark plugs, spark plug wires, and fuel filters. Once again they too can effect your gas mileage. Ensuring that all these items are working properly and are replaced at least once a year will keep your vehicle running healthy.
• Make sure your vehicle can breathe. Just like all living things, your vehicle needs air to work properly. Most air filters need to be changed when your oil is changed. If your car can not breathe it can end up getting….. I bet you can guess it, poor gas mileage. The cleaner the filter the happier your car will be.
• Clean your car. You might think I am kidding, but it is proven that a clean car can get more gas mileage. If you are wanting to save some green, washing and waxing you vehicle will make it more aerodynamic. Doing this will make your vehicle glide through the air.