(NAPSI)-With gas prices soaring, drivers and their gas dollars aren't going nearly as far as they used to. However, there are a number of things you can do to help improve your car's fuel efficiency. Here are six tips to maximize your car's performance.

1. Check your tire pressure. Improperly inflated tires can greatly reduce your fuel economy, so make sure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure level. The right tire pressure will provide you with a safer ride and help reduce wear on the tires.

2. Maintain your vehicle. Replacing a dirty, clogged air filter will go a long way in improving your car's fuel efficiency. According to the federal government, your car's gas mileage could improve by as much as 10 percent with a clean air filter. In addition to the fuel savings, the new filter will help protect your engine as well.

3. Clean your fuel system. Carbon and resin buildup in your car's fuel system stifles your engine's ability to breathe and reduces fuel efficiency. Flush out your fuel system, including the fuel injector, intake valve and combustion chamber, with a specialized tank additive, such as 3M Fuel System Cleaner. Have your fuel system professionally cleaned by shops that use the complete 3M Fuel Injector Cleaning System. By keeping your fuel system clean, you'll improve your vehicle's fuel economy.

4. Take it easy and slow down. Driving your car at high speed, "jackrabbit starts" and aggressive driving in traffic can greatly reduce fuel efficiency. The U.S. Department of Energy says, "As a rule of thumb, you can assume that each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.20 per gallon for gas." And every time you "hit the gas," you get closer to your next refill.

5. Remove excessive weight. Remove any unnecessary objects in your vehicle, especially heavy items. An extra 100 pounds in your vehicle could reduce fuel efficiency by as much as 2 percent. Lighten up and your mileage will go up.

6. Use your air-conditioning sparingly. Don't just run your air conditioner out of habit in the summer. If it's not too hot out, try using the fan setting alone. This will help you get more miles to the gallon.

For additional information, visit www.3Mcarcare.com.
Keeping your fuel system clean will put you on the road to better gas economy.