Car care advice during tough economic times

    The average car and light truck on American roads has reached a record age of 9.4 years, according to a recent survey by R.L. Polk & Co. With new car sales down, consumers across the country are looking to get the most out of their existing cars and to save money whenever possible.
    However, spending a little more today on the right maintenance routine with quality products and trusted service technicians can help save money over the long run. Alan Taylor, host of the nationally syndicated show Car & Driver Radio, offers a simple checklist of tips motorists should perform to help keep their vehicles running longer, safer and more cost-effectively.
    Motor oil really does matter: Beyond regular, specified oil changes, automobile manufacturers recommend the use of high-quality motor oils that meet the latest American Petroleum Institute (API) specifications in their particular grade. Consumers should ask for quality motor oils by name because they are formulated to meet the demands of today’s engines. Using a quality motor oil in the right grade can help maximize fuel economy, and help save money by preventing costly engine damage. A new, informative Web site — www.MotorOilMatters.org — answers many motor oil questions and dispels many common myths.
    Regular preventive maintenance pays off: Most vehicle manufacturers have two classifications for driving conditions, “normal” and “severe,” which they use to recommend how often drivers should have services such as oil changes performed on their vehicle. A driving habits survey conducted for Jiffy Lube found that more than 92 percent of motorists drive in what vehicle manufacturers consider “severe” conditions.
    Regardless of the driving conditions, it’s important that people follow their vehicle manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations. Keeping a vehicle on its proper preventive maintenance schedule will help keep it running smoothly. For instance, the minimal investment of an oil change (generally $25-$35 for a standard change with conventional oil) can help drivers avoid potentially more costly repairs down the road.