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When is the last time that you’ve checked your vehicle’s tire pressure?  I’m going to guess it’s been a long time!  Checking your tire pressure is one of those things that are vitally important but often get overlooked.  Here are the benefits of properly inflated tires:

- When your tires are properly inflated your vehicle will handle better because there is less friction between the tire and the road.  So, less friction equals better handling….which also equals better fuel economy and (you guessed it!) cost savings passed on to you!

- When tires are under-inflated, they put a lot of pressure on the seam where the tire meets the wheel (or rim).  This will cause damage to the seam and a trip to the mechanics for a new tire!

So how do you know when your tires are properly inflated?  You can either refer to your driver manual or you will notice a sticker on the inside of the driver’s door or door frame that will tell you what the optimum PSI level is for your tires.

If you have followed my previous advice about doing your own preventitive maintenance on your vehicles, you would know that your air filter is an important piece of the puzzle.  The air filter allows clean air to enter the engine and mix with the fuel to put your vehicle in motion….the more air you can get into your engine, the less fuel you need….and thus saves you money.  However, the problem with most vehicles is that the your standard air filter is very restrictive in terms of air flow and you have to get rid of it and buy a new one every 5000-8000 kms.

This is where K&N filters come in.  These direct replacement filters allow greater air flow to the engine while offering maximum protection against dirt particles.  The best part about these filters is that you never have to replace them….they come with a 1,000,000 mile warranty!  All that is required is a cleaning every 50,000 miles according to the K&N website.  You can buy cleaning kits at a number of stores including Canadian Tire if you live in Canada.  They sell for around $15.

This not only equals better fuel economy and fuel savings, but you’re saving a ton of cash as well.  A standard replacement K&N filter will cost you anywhere from $40-$60 which is a one time cost.  Compare that with buying a new conventional filter for $15-$20 everytime you change your oil.  Therefore, if you were changing your filter 2-3 times a year, you could  get your return on your investment in only  a year!

In a lot of cases, a major trip to the mechanic could have been avoided by doing regular vehicle maintenance.  What is involved in this you ask?  Regular vehicle maintenance usually involves doing a complete circle check of your vehicle checking hoses, belts and lines for cracks, leaks, and general wear and tear.  The most important checks are your break lines, your radiator (keeps the engine cool) lines  coming to and from the engine, and the serpentine belt (which controls the A/C, alternator, water pump, power steering, and other accessories).  You should also check all your fluids:  Break fluid, power steering fluid, washer fluid, radiator coolant, and oil (which is the most important).  Next, check your tires for proper inflation and make sure there is still plently of tread left on the tire.  A properly inflated tire puts less strain on the vehicle, which in turn produces better fuel economy.

Think this is all to much to handle?!  Check your vehicle manual that should be in your glove box.  Most provide a diagram that shows you the location of each of the items listed above.

Another part of regular vehicle maintenance is changing your oil, oil filter, and air filter about every 5000 km for regular oil or 7000-8000 km for synthetic blends.  Oil is the life blood of a vehicle and helps keep vital components lubricated and functioning correctly.  If you don’t change your oil, the oil starts to break down and lose it’s viscosity which will in turn cause your engine components to eventually sieze…..and also cause a heafty bill at the mechanics.  Your air filter is just as important.  As air is drawn into your engine for combustion, the air filter gets rid of dirt particles in the air that could cause engine damage.  As the filter gets clogged with these dirt particles, you will be getting less air into your engine which will require more fuel for combustion….and therefore decrease your fuel economy.

Want to save even more money?  Do it all yourself!  Changing oil and your filters is actually quite easy once you learn where everything is and goes.  When I was just learning about vehicle maintenance, I started with ‘Car Repair For Dummies’.  I found it to be an awesome starter that explained everything in terms that anyone can understand.  If you’re new to all this, I would give this book a try.

Below you will find a quick link to Amazon where you can purchase ‘Auto Repair For Dummies’ for only CDN$14.39!