According to Lauren Fix, The Car Coach (www.laurenfix.com), a former race car driver and the host of a cable automotive talk show on the DIY network, "Routine maintenance is the key to helping your car achieve its potential."

The people at Midas, who have over 50 years of experience in automotive service, offer these tips to help drivers get better gas mileage and extend the lives of their vehicles:

- Don't Ease the Pressure.

Under-inflated tires cost drivers two miles per gallon in reduced fuel economy, so drivers should check their tire pressure once a month.

Drivers can find the correct tire pressure inside the driver-side door. They should check their tire pressure in the morning, when the air is cold, and remember to inflate their spare tire.

- Keep Things Oiled.

Drivers should check their oil once a month and change their oil according to their vehicle's manufacturer's recommendations. Midas can provide quality oil and filter changes, which will help keep engines running smoothly.

- Keep the Filter Clean.

The air filter acts like a car's lungs.

Drivers should check their air filters when they change their oil.

Buying a car can be a person's second-largest investment. To save money in the long run, car owners should keep their vehicles running as long as possible.

To save money on maintenance costs, drivers should look for package deals. The Midas Touch Maintenance Package includes an oil and a filter change, a four-wheel tire rotation and a 45-point courtesy check.

Routine car maintenance can help drivers improve their fuel efficiency and keep their vehicles working longer. As Fix said, "By checking the essential parts of your car regularly, drivers will see a big difference in the performance of their automobile."

To learn more about saving money on fuel and extending the life of your car, visit www.midas.com.