Tune Up Your Car, Pump Up Your Wallet

BETHESDA, Md., Sept. 10, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Treat your car to a tune-up and get better gas mileage in return. According to the Car Care Council, even today's modern vehicles need a periodic tune-up and that can save big at the pump.

"Regular tune-ups are an investment that really pays off. A well-maintained vehicle is not only more fuel efficient and environmentally friendly, but performs better and is safer and more reliable," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council.

The council recommends a 21st Century tune-up during which the fuel, emissions and ignition systems are checked, as well as the battery, charging and starting system, and the engine mechanical and powertrain control systems. Keeping a car properly tuned can improve gas mileage by an average of 4 percent.

In addition to performing a tune-up, keeping tires properly inflated improves gas mileage by 3 percent. A clean air filter can improve fuel efficiency by as much as 14 percent on older vehicles and also helps the environment, as do regular oil and oil filter changes. Air filters are usually inspected during an oil change, which should be performed regularly as recommended in the owner's manual. Tire pressure should be checked monthly.

White reminds motorists that many fluids and components replaced during vehicle service should be properly recycled or disposed of, including oil and oil filters, coolant, batteries, tires, and brake, transmission and power steering fluids.

To learn more about the benefits of a well-maintained vehicle, view the Car Care Council's 21^st Century Tune-Up Car Care Minute video or visit www.carcare.org.

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 more information, visit www.carcare.org.

SOURCE Car Care Council