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(NAPSI)-The gas mileage you get out of your vehicle may depend on the work you put into it. Mechanics say that caring for your vehicle from the inside out is one of the best ways to make it more fuel efficient.
That may be why car owners are increasingly performing their own basic maintenance tasks-such as oil changes and basic belt, hose and wiper inspections-in between regularly scheduled service visits.
"There are a number of routine maintenance tasks that people can perform themselves," says Rich White of the Car Care Council. "Consumers can give their vehicles a simple driveway inspection of belts, hoses, tire pressure, wiper blades, oil and lights to save time and money."
The Council recommends a few basics that every trunk or garage should have to handle simple vehicle maintenance projects, including:
• An oil filter wrench for oil changes
• A torque wrench for tightening nuts and bolts to specifications
• An air pressure gauge for tire maintenance
• Combination hex-key wrench sets and basic screwdrivers.
Many of the tools needed to perform basic do-it-yourself projects can be found either individually or in sets at automotive retailers such as AutoZone, which tend to stock affordably priced, high-quality brands like OEM from Great Neck Saw Manufacturers.
Some specialty automotive tools are designed specifically to help at-home mechanics accomplish basic maintenance more confidently. For example, OEM's Strap Wrench is ideal for oil changes because it's designed to fit any circumference and any irregular shape. Similarly, the Double Action Speedy Twist Ratchet can help do-it-yourselfers get to hard-to-reach places.
For information about specialty tools that can help with vehicle maintenance, visit the Web site www.greatnecksaw.com or call 1-800-457-0600.