Keeping your vehicle in top condition will save fuel and money, reduce your long-term maintenance costs, minimize harmful exhaust emissions, improve reliability and increase your car’s resale value.

According to the Car Care Council (CCC), nearly 8 out of 10 vehicles are found to have some mechanical problems. In a lot of cases, owners wait until their car is in serious trouble before having it repaired due to budgeting constraints. Car problems can be easily fixed by putting aside money each month for automotive repairs. Before you start this budgeting plan, get your car inspected by a qualified technician and have any necessary repairs made. After the repairs have been made you should start saving six cents per kilometre you drive. For a typical driver this will average out to about $60.00 per month and $720.00 per year. This should cover most maintenance plus tire replacement if needed.
What steps should you take to keep your vehicle maintained? First, make sure you read the Maintenance section of your owner's manual.
It lists a complete schedule of required maintenance as well as fluid and replacement component recommendations. Since it was written for your vehicle, it contains the most accurate maintenance information.

Tire Pressure
Keep your tires inflated to the proper psi (pound per square inch) as designated in your owner's manual. Under-inflation is a tire’s #1 enemy. One tire under-inflated by 6 psi can reduce its life by 10,000 km – and increase a vehicle's fuel consumption. Tires on a vehicle should also be rotated every 12,000 km.

Oil and Filter Change
Have a lube-oil and filter service performed regularly. A clogged oil filter can increase fuel consumption by 10%. In addition, fresh oil helps maintain fuel efficiency since oil works as a lubricant for the moving parts of the engine, minimizing friction and carrying away excess heat. Use motor oil that is Energy Conserving rated. Using the lowest multigrade of oil that is recommended in your owner’s manual can improve the engine’s fuel efficiency. Oil changes should be done on a new vehicle every 6000-8000 km for the first two years.

Fluids
Fluids checked regularly are a good indicator of a potential future problem. Be sure to check coolant, power steering, brake, transmission (auto and manual), transaxles and differentials fluids.

Batteries
Batteries store the energy that is needed to start your car’s engine. And once the engine is running, the alternator starts re-charging the battery for the next start. Maintenance includes keeping the battery clean and secured so it doesn’t vibrate.

Brake Maintenance
Maintaining your brake system is an important part of your safety and should not be ignored. Brakes should be inspected at least once a year.

Belts and Hoses
Belts and hoses have a regular service life and need to be checked regularly. Take advantage of seasonal specials that combine services at a discounted price. These promotional deals can save you both time and money as well as identify any possible problems before they actually happen. Talk to your ACDelco-trained technician about your vehicle’s maintenance requirements.