Go Green, Save Green

BETHESDA, Md., Aug. 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Being green doesn't have to mean you have to spend a lot of green.  According to the Car Care Council, by properly maintaining your vehicle's fuel system, you will not only improve the performance of your vehicle, but lower its emissions and save money at the pump, too.

"A well-maintained fuel system is essential for good gas mileage," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council.  "By simply replacing your car's fuel filter every two years or 24,000 miles and having your fuel injectors flushed our every 30,000 miles, you will not only have a cleaner, 'greener' car, but you will also spend less 'green' at the pump."

In addition to routine maintenance, your fuel system should be checked immediately if you smell gas, or suddenly have poor fuel economy, because there might be leak in the fuel system. If the "Check Engine" light is illuminated, it may mean a problem with the fuel injectors or oxygen sensors. While oxygen sensors are part of the emission system, they have a large impact on your vehicle's fuel economy.

The fuel system in your car includes a pressure regulator, fuel injectors, lines/hoses, fuel filter, fuel tank and one or more fuel pumps. These components work together to supply fuel to the vehicle as needed. The fuel system transfers fuel from the fuel tank, passing it through a fuel filter for cleaning before it arrives at the injectors. A pressure regulator controls fuel pressure to ensure good engine performance under a variety of speed and load conditions. Fuel injectors, when activated, spray a metered amount of fuel into the engine. Some vehicles use a return line system to return unused fuel back to the tank.

"While the fuel system may seem complex, preventative maintenance will keep it running at peak performance and keep you in the 'green,'" said White.

About the Car Care Council:

The Car Care Council is the source of information for the "Be Car Care Aware" consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council's Car Care Guide or for more information, visit www.carcare.org.

SOURCE Car Care Council