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Learn how to get "green savings" in your wallet and on the road.
(NC)—In today's economy, everyone is looking for ways to save money, and an unexpected place to do it could be in your garage.
“There are a lot of very simple things that you can either do yourself or have done for you that will help your car run more efficiently, so you can save money at the pump,” explains Megan Currie, Honeywell Consumer Products Group product manager.
Here are a couple examples of how drivers can save a little green – both in their wallets, and on the road:
Change The Air Filter:
According to Environment Canada, replacing a clogged air filter can improve a car's gas mileage by as much as 10 percent. Fram air filters are an effective solution, as most models feature bright white fibres that make it easy to spot when a filter may need checking. While not all cars are alike, this is often a very easy project that can be done in minutes.
Try A Fuel Additive:
Using a fuel additive like Prestone Complete Fuel System Cleaner every 6,400 kilometers helps improve acceleration and fuel economy by unclogging fuel injectors and cleaning intake valves and combustion chambers. “All you need to do is pour it into your gas tank and drive away to improved performance,” Currie stated.
Now, carrying out simple activities like this doesn't mean you should avoid your local automotive service provider. Deferred maintenance can cost you way more in the long run. So, still plan to schedule those routine visits to ensure your car is in good working order and don't put off activities such as oil changes and tune ups.
Consider changing out spark plugs for ones that offer a faster, more efficient burn. Autolite XP Xtreme Performance spark plugs ignite the gas and air mixture inside the cylinders more efficiently than .8mm finewire, multi-electrode design and standard plugs, resulting in improved throttle response and acceleration. This, in turn, helps provide top fuel efficiency over the life of the plug.
Also, ask your technician to use synthetic oil and a filter like the FRAM Extended Guard synthetic oil filter. It may cost a little more upfront, but you'll be able to go 11,000 kilometers before your next oil and filter change.
Your owner's manual will tell you what kind of oil to use and how often to have it changed. Finally, ensure your vehicle has received the proper cooling system maintenance. Prestone experts suggest that neglected antifreeze/coolant can lead to corrosion, overheating and boil overs – and could cost lots of money to repair. Whether you do it yourself or have it done for you, preventative maintenance is the key to healthy cars and healthy wallets. Think of it this way, you can pay now for regular maintenance or potentially pay much more later for costly repairs or vehicle breakdowns.
More information and tips can be found online at www.honeywellcpg.com.