Performing regular maintenance on your car will not only help prevent significant vehicle damage caused by neglecting your vehicle, it can preserve the earth too.

According to the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) by keeping up routine maintenance and following a regular service schedule you car will stay on the road longer and be more fuel-efficient as well. Besides avoiding speeding and sudden acceleration, their advice for getting the most life out of your car includes:

☆ Focus on preventative maintenance; waiting until your car starts to show signs of trouble such as problem spark plugs and failed oxygen sensors can reduce gas mileage and contribute to pollution.

☆ Mileage can be affected by as much as 10 per cent due to clogged air, oil and fuel filters interfering with the operation of your engine.

☆ Simply using the recommended grade of oil for your vehicle as per the manufacturer's guidelines can save one to two per cent on your mileage.

☆ If your tires are starting to feel a little low on air, make sure to get out that tire gauge and inflate them if necessary. Your engine won't have to work as hard if the tires have the required amount of air in them and can improve your mileage by three per cent.

» National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence