(ARA) – Remember when $4 seemed like an outrageous amount to spend on a gallon of gasoline? Now that number doesn’t seem so far-fetched. While you can’t do anything to control the unrest in the Middle East or oil rig explosions that could lead to gas prices spiking at a moment’s notice, there are a few things you can do to help ease the pain of high gas prices.
While buying a more fuel-efficient car might be an option for some, new and used cars that get more miles per gallon tend to be more in demand – and more expensive – when gas prices are high. If a new car isn’t an option for you, implementing the following changes can help ensure that you get the most from the fuel in your gas tank:
* Keep the gas you buy in your car. When gas prices are low, stealing gas would likely be more trouble than it’s worth, but when prices are high, it’s not uncommon for thieves to siphon gas from vehicles, especially those with larger tanks. Adding a locking gas cap can be done for much less than the cost of a tank of gas. In addition to preventing theft, locking fuel tank caps can also prevent anyone from tampering with your gas tank.
* Keep your tank full. While you’re looking to reduce the amount of gasoline you are using, constantly running your car with the tank close to empty can wear down your fuel pump. “The gasoline in the tank keeps the fuel pump cool. Take away the gas and the fuel pump runs hot and has a shorter life,” says Tom Taylor, engineer and vice president of RockAuto.com. If you have an older car that has accumulated dirt and rust at the bottom of the tank, keeping a full tank can help your fuel burn cleaner.
* Keep your car in shape. Keeping your engine properly tuned improves fuel efficiency by an average of 4 percent and repairing a major issue like a faulty oxygen sensor could improve efficiency by up to 40 percent, according the U.S. Department of Energy. The RockAuto.com parts catalog has oxygen sensors from $10 to more than $100 depending on the car,” says Taylor. Especially if you’re a do-it-yourselfer, you could quickly recoup the cost of an oxygen sensor or other repair after as little as one tank of gas through improved fuel economy.
* Keep your tires inflated properly. Keeping your tires at the optimal level not only keeps you safer, but can improve your gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent, according to the Department of Energy. Your owner’s manual should tell you the proper psi (pounds per square inch) levels for your vehicle.
* Drive for optimal gas mileage. How you drive can affect how much gas you use. Most cars run at peak efficiency at around 60 mph, with fuel economy decreasing sharply when traveling faster. Aggressive driving with rapid acceleration and slowing will also have a negative effect on your fuel economy.
* Reduce weight and drag. Getting rid of items such as roof equipment when they aren’t being used can help your car become more aerodynamic and run more efficiently. Keeping unnecessary items in your car, especially if they are heavy, can also make your car work harder and use more fuel than it needs to.
By adding up the small savings gained by each of these tips, you can really notice a difference on how much you are paying at the pump, especially over a long period of time.

Choosing the right filter for your vehicle

(ARA) – In today’s economy it’s more important than ever to take care of your vehicle. Engine maintenance is critical when extending the life of your vehicle. There is a lot of information available about the differences in oils and other maintenance components, but what no one explains is what to look for in an oil filter.

The oil filter serves as the lifeblood for your engine. It is important because it cleans the oil and is capable of filtering high volumes of oil with relatively low restriction. How do you know which filter to choose and what are the differences between styles? Here is some information to help you decide.

The shell is the outside casing you see when the filter is installed. It keeps your filter safe during the wear and tear on your vehicle, and protects it from punctures.

The media is the filtering component. Depending on the level of filter you chose, media can be described as a maze of cellulose, synthetics and/or microfibers that remove the harmful debris from your engine oil.

The core is the part of the filter that helps the filter keep its shape and prevents it from collapsing under extreme pressure. It is inserted inside of the filter media and can be made of a variety of materials.

The base plate is the threaded component of the oil filter. In addition to providing the threaded attachment for the filter, it directs the oil flow through the filter.

The gasket is the rubber ring that seals the filter to the engine’s oil filter base. This gasket is typically made of flexible rubber.

Now that you understand the components of an oil filter, it’s easy to see that not all oil filters are the same. There are some key differences in the quality of oil filter you are purchasing.

Most “economy” filters are very basic and last for a limited time in comparison to the higher end filters. These filters use media of natural wood fibers to sort out the debris in your oil.

The “better” filter contains media that is a blend of fibers. The majority of the fibers are cellulose with a minimal blend of synthetic fibers that enhance the media strength and efficiency performance.

The “best” or premium level of filters use micro-glass filter technology. Advanced micro-glass oil filters are designed to extend the life of vehicle and equipment. In addition to superior filtration media, the other internal and structural components are of higher quality materials, making for easier installation and removal, as they are much less prone to crush while installing or removing. These oil filters can extend change intervals up to 12,000 miles.

Vehicles still under warranty should follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended filter change intervals.

A vehicle history report can help used-car buyers avoid flood-damaged vehicles.

(NAPS)—It’s important to steer clear of used cars that were waterlogged in floods, hurricanes and other storms. Experts say over 75 percent of declared federal disasters are related to floods. The vehicles can turn up in areas thousands of miles from where the damage occurred, and unknowing consumers who purchase a water-damaged auto from a dishonest seller may have little recourse.

A Growing Concern
It’s estimated that the number of waterlogged wrecks on the market has doubled in recent years, despite the fact that most flood-damaged vehicles are writtten off by insurance companies. Indeed, many of the cars make their way back to the used-car market, rebuilt and disguised as ordinary used cars with clean titles. Fortunately, there are ways to spot the telltale signs of a flood-damaged car. Carfax offers these tips:

Look Around
Check the trunk, dashboard and glove compartment for silt, mud, rust and other signs of water damage. You should also examine upholstery and carpeting closely. If it doesn’t match the interior or fits loosely, it may have been replaced. Discolored, faded or stained materials might indicate water damage.

Run A Test
Test the interior and exterior lights, as well as the windshield wipers, turn signals, DC power outlet, radio, heater and air conditioner several times to be certain they work. Also, turn the ignition key and make sure the accessory and warning lights and gauges work properly. Be certain the ABS and air bag lights come on, too.

The Nose Knows
Smell the interior of the car to check for musty odors. It’s also smart to flex some of the wires beneath the dashboard. Wet wires become brittle upon drying and may crack.

Get A Second Opinion
Bring the car to a trusted mechanic for a prepurchase inspection. Always get a vehicle checked before handing money over.

Know Your History
Ask to see a detailed vehicle history report. Thousands of dealers provide them free—just say, “Show Me the Carfax.” A Carfax Vehicle History Report can reveal any number of hidden problems from a vehicle’s past, including flood titles. Used-car shoppers worried about flood damage can also check for free at flood.carfax.com.

Here’s a cool idea: Be sure your car’s battery is in good condition before venturing out into the cold.

(NAPS)—Preventing a frozen battery in the winter is easier than you may think if you take some time to check out the situation before nasty weather sets in.
To ensure that your car battery starts dependably, no matter how outrageous the weather, Interstate Batteries cold weather expert Gale Kimbrough offers some simple tips to protect your car battery against severe cold conditions:
Test the starting power: The cold weather can dramatically reduce a battery’s available starting power, so have the vehicle’s starting and charging system tested every three months or every oil change.
Charge the battery: Use a battery charger to maintain charge levels and keep the battery in good condition. If the battery is more than three years old, it should be tested to make sure it can survive the coldest winter months.
Test the battery: Have the battery tested before taking a long trip or after it’s been recharged.
Inspect the battery cables, posts and fasteners: Preparing your car for the winter doesn’t end with the battery itself. You need to inspect your battery cables, posts and fasteners. Make sure the cables are in good shape and are secured firmly to the battery. Corrosion keeps power from flowing freely from the battery, reducing the power that is available to start the car.
Keep it clean: Clean the battery terminals with a wire brush or spray some battery cleaner on the terminals.
In just 30 seconds, Interstate All Battery Center locations can provide motorists with a free printout analysis of their vehicle’s battery condition—from projected battery life to cranking performance. It’s important to have the battery and electrical system checked by a professional. Sometimes the naked eye cannot detect the presence of corrosion because it is hidden under the metal between the connection and the post.
A fully charged battery is the best defense against cold weather and vehicle nonstarts because engines require more cranking amps in colder weather. The cold also reduces a battery’s efficiency, reducing its charge acceptance and ability to start an engine. An engine at 32 degrees Fahrenheit often demands more than 150 percent cranking power from the battery than it does at 80 degrees. At 0 degrees Fahrenheit, it can be 250 percent.
For more information, visit www.interstatebatteries.com.

(NewsUSA) – While we might slip up on our New Year’s resolutions at times, this year you can resolve to take better care of your car all year. Firestone Complete Auto Care offers the following tips for winter vehicle maintenance to get you started!
*Be proactive. Winter only magnifies existing problems like pings, hard starts,  sluggish performance or rough idling. Make sure your vehicle is mechanically sound before the temperature dips and the streets get icy. Make certain the engine is in peak condition. Also check the cooling system. Coolant should be replaced per the vehicle manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.
*Be on schedule. Have your motor oil changed regularly. Use the specified weight and grade of oil recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. Also make sure to check that the heating/defrosting system is working properly.
*Be prepared. Prepare for potential winter emergencies by using your trunk as a storage place for emergency items. Important items to have on hand include: a properly inflated spare tire; ice scraper; windshield de-icer; flashlight; blanket; extra clothes; bottled water; cell phone car charger and non-perishable snacks.
*Be on the defensive. Take a defensive position against winter driving conditions, and take care of your tires. Once it gets cold, tire tread and pressure should be checked weekly. A tire’s PSI measurement can drop one pound for every 10-degree drop in temperature. If snow and ice are a problem in your area, consider installing winter tires, which are specially designed to grip slick roads.
*Be diligent. Use common sense during adverse road conditions. Reduce your driving speed, and increase your following distance in hazardous winter weather. If you get stuck in the snow, don’t spin your tires — this can overheat them and possibly cause damage. Use sand, gravel, kitty litter, an asphalt shingle or other gritty items to help your tires gain traction when stuck.

With fewer daylight hours in the fall and winter, it’s important to make sure your vehicle can be seen by others and your visibility is not compromised. Fall Car Care Month in October is also National Headlight Safety Month, the perfect time for a safety inspection of your vehicle’s lights and wipers, according to the Car Care Council.

“As the days get shorter, your vehicle’s lighting system becomes more important to the safety of you and your passengers,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “From the driver’s seat you may not notice a light that isn’t working, so be sure to inspect your car’s lights at every oil change. At the same time, inspect and replace wiper blades so you can see clearly when wet weather hits.”

Lights and wipers play a major role in safe driving, as the chance of an accident increases if you can’t see or be seen. The wiper system keeps excessive water, snow and dirt from building up on the windshield, maintaining clear visibility. The lighting system provides nighttime visibility, signals and alerts other drivers, and supplies light for viewing instruments and the vehicle’s interior.

Lights are normal wear items that require periodic inspection and replacement. In addition to replacing dimming, rapidly blinking and non-functioning lights, the following tips can help keep you safe:

• Keep headlights, tail lights and signal lights clean. External dirt and debris can dim operational lights from being seen by others.

• Make sure that your headlights are properly aimed. Miss-aimed headlights blind other drivers and reduce your ability to see the road.

• Don’t overdrive your headlights; you should be able to stop inside the illuminated area, otherwise you are creating a blind crash area in front of your vehicle.

• If there is any doubt on whether or not your headlights should be on, turn them on. Lights not only help you see better in early twilight, they also make it easier for other drivers to see you.

Many factors can accelerate the replacement interval of wipers, including operating conditions (winter conditions are tough on wiper blades), frequency of use, material and type of wipers and sunny weather. In fact, wiper blades can deteriorate faster and need more frequent replacement in desert states.

Some states have laws that require the headlights to be on with the wipers. If you detect any problem with your car’s lights or wipers, have them checked out at once. Keep your vehicle’s lights properly cared for to help ensure a safer ride and keep the road ahead well lit.

(SPM Wire)  As the days get shorter, it’s time to make sure your car is ready for the season.

The experts at the Car Care Council recommend taking care of simple maintenance now to avoid costly future repairs.

Basic fall auto maintenance includes checking the oil, filters and fluids, belts and hoses, brakes, tires and air conditioning. An annual tune-up and wheel alignment are also recomended.

“Making your vehicle last longer makes good financial sense,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “By simply budgeting the equivalent of just one car payment, you could cover an entire year’s worth of basic maintenance.”

More auto tips can be found online at www.carcare.org.

147,000,000 gallons of gas each year vaporize into the atmosphere due to misused or missing gas caps.

Under inflated tires increase rolling resistance and waste gas- like driving with the parking brake not fully released.

Keeping up with regular vehicle maintenance can improve gas mileage by an average of 4.1 percent.
Fixing a serious maintenance problem, such as a faulty oxygen sensor, can improve your mileage by as much as 40 percent.
Slipping automatic transmission can reduce fuel economy by one mile per gallon.
Replacing a clogged air filter can improve gas mileage by as much as 10 percent.
A dirty spark plug causes misfiring and that wastes fuel, up to two miles per gallon.

Aggressive driving can lower your gas mileage by 33 percent on the highway and 5 percent in the city.

Cooling system thermostat that causes the engine to run too cold can reduce fuel economy by two miles per gallon.

Unused roof rack and accessories add weight and drag-decreasing fuel efficiency.
A loose gas cap can allow fuel to evaporate, up to two miles per gallon.
Gas mileage decreases rapidly above 60 miles per hour.

Several short trips taken from a cold start can use twice as much fuel as a longer multi-purpose trip covering the same distance.

Idling gets 0 miles per gallon.

An extra 100 lbs in the trunk reduces fuel economy by 1-2 percent.

Dirty or substandard oil can reduce fuel economy by one mile per gallon.
Improve gas mileage 3.3 percent by keeping tires inflated to the proper pressure.
Worn O2 sensor can reduce fuel economy by three miles per gallon.

Seasonal car care maintenance can prevent unexpected breakdowns

(Family Features) Whether you’re loading up the car for a road trip or taking a leisurely cruise around town with the windows down, hitting the pavement is a given for this time of year. However, taking advantage of the warm, sunny weather can be a disadvantage to your vehicle if you aren’t diligent about preparing it for the summer driving season.

“Summer is tough on cars, especially during high temperatures,” says Jessi Combs, a car care expert and fabricator who’s appeared on shows such as “Mythbusters,” “Overhaulin’” and “Xtreme 4×4.” “Drivers need to give their vehicles a little summer loving to make sure exploring the open road doesn’t leave you stranded on the side of the road.”

A simple automotive checkup of a few main areas can help prepare a vehicle for the heat and increase its reliability on long road trips. To avoid an unexpected breakdown, be sure to follow these four tips:

Coolant system: Check the level and strength of the coolant. The coolant system works overtime in the summer to keep engine temperatures stable, and a low coolant level may allow your engine to overheat. If low, add a 50/50 mixture of coolant and water to keep the cooling system working effectively. If the coolant is in bad condition, it’s time to have the system flushed (usually every other year). As a reminder, never open a hot radiator cap when checking the coolant level in the reservoir; hot steam and coolant may spray out and burn you.

Tires: To maximize tire life and safety, check the tire condition and inflation pressure regularly. Under-inflated tires are more likely to blow out in high heat and can also reduce fuel economy. Check your owner’s manual (or look inside the driver’s side doorframe) to find the recommended air pressure rating for your vehicle. Be sure the spare is also inflated properly.

Oil: Most vehicles need an oil change every three to six months depending on what type of driving you do and on what oil change interval your OEM recommends for your vehicle. During hot summer months, use of a high performance synthetic motor oil should be considered, as synthetic motor oils such as Mobil 1 10W-30 or 15W-50 are extremely stable in high temperature conditions. Good high temperature stability translates into better protection for your engine. Check the owner’s manual for specific oil recommendations.

Battery: Excessive heat and overcharging shorten the life of your car’s battery. Hot summer weather increases the rate of evaporation of battery fluid, which then damages the internal structure of the battery. The average battery life is around five years. If the battery is old and weak, replace it.  If it is relatively new, inspect the terminals and posts to make sure they are free of corrosion and dirt, have enough lubrication, and are tight.

“Don’t forget the little things you can do to keep your car cool,” says Combs. “Park in the shade whenever possible, consider buying a sun shade for the windshield to reflect light if the vehicle must be parked in direct sunlight, and leave the windows cracked so hot air can escape.”

Give your vehicle a good cleaning once a week. The body of the car should also be waxed or sprayed with a protectant to help shield the paint from UV rays from the sun.

For more information on vehicle maintenance, visit www.mobil1.com.

The 2009 Michigan Drunk Driving Audit shows declines in alcohol-related crashes, fatalities and arrests, but notes increases in crashes and injuries involving drugs.

Traffic deaths resulting from alcohol and/or drug-related crashes decreased from 379 in 2008, to 351 in 2009. However, the number of people injured in crashes involving alcohol and/or drugs increased last year from 6,248 in 2008, to 6,271 in 2009. Much of that increase involved drivers who had drugs in their system, which accounted for 83 additional injuries last year compared to 2008.

“As we review the data, we are continuing to see drugs playing a larger role in traffic crashes and injuries,” said Colonel Eddie L. Washington, Jr., director of the Michigan State Police (MSP). “However, much of that increase is due to expanded drug testing requests by law enforcement following an arrest.”

A change made to Michigan law, in 2003, makes driving with any trace of drugs such as heroin, marijuana or cocaine in a person’s system illegal. In response to that change, testing for these substances has more than doubled over the past five years.

The Drunk Driving Audit is an annual report issued by the MSP Criminal Justice Information Center and is a collaborative effort between the MSP and the Michigan Department of State.

“Fewer drunken driving arrests show our efforts to discourage drinking and driving are working,” said Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land. “But we must continue educating drivers, especially new ones, about the dangers of driving under the influence. Awareness and education are key to reducing alcohol-related crashes and injuries.”

In 2009, 45,893 alcohol and drug-related driving arrests were made, 1,358 fewer than in 2008. Although arrests of both men and women declined in 2009, arrest numbers for impaired female drivers were nearly the same as 2008, with 11,671 women arrested last year compared to 11,743 in 2008. Although male drivers accounted for the biggest drop, they were still nearly three times as likely to be arrested for impaired driving with 34,222 arrests.

Of those arrests, 46,370 resulted in operating under the influence of liquor or impaired driving convictions. Some of these convictions may include arrests made in prior years.

The 2009 Drunk Driving Audit is available at www.michigan.gov/msp. Click on Publications, Forms & Statistics, then select Statistical Information and then choose Drunk Driving Audit.