The economy is weakening, food and car fuel prices are fluctuating like crazy & shooting through the roof. Without question, we are all trying to make ends meet and keeping our cars longer. US Research shows that the average age of vehicles on the road is about 9 years. So is keeping your old car and stretching your work horse even further being environmentally friendly? How can we do that without having to spend more on maintenance?

It is only natural that your car engine wears with age, performance falls, breakdowns happen more often and car fuel consumption is higher. Here we share some good practice car maintenance with you to enhance the longevity of your vehicle.

Listen Up And Be Aware Of The Warning Signs. Did you hear that weird noise at the back of your car? Or that squeak that happened over the weekend after your trip to the Rockies? Or that pungent gasoline smell which has been haunting you since a week ago? Or did you see that oil leak on your garage floor this morning? Check where the noise comes from. Early detection of car faults could save you a ton of money.

Do an Oil Change Every 3 Months Or 3,000 Miles. A simple example to help you visualize - Imagine re-using the same pot of oil for deep-frying your French fries everyday for 3 weeks… the oil has become a thick crude of glob and your fries tastes weird doesn’t it? Same theory goes you’re your car. Revitalize your car engine with a fixed scheduled oil change routine.

Cars are like humans, You need to keep them in tuned with the seasons unless, of course you are fortunate enough to live in sunny tropical climate. In Winter, at the very least, remember to change to winter tires in season and add anti-freeze. Plug in your electric cord to warm up the engine half an hour before you start your journey.

Conversely, in summer especially, remember to check your fluids too. The sun heats up your fluid at a quicker pace, and they tend to dry up fast. Check your oil level, coolant fluids etc. Keep your car in a cool and covered garage whenever possible, especially in summer. It could help you keep that pretty paint job for much longer time too.

Sign Up For A Comprehensive Tune-Up Package. The mechanics will do your oil change, change your air filters, check your spark plugs, radiator and fuel injector, test your brake pads, tire pressure, rotate your tires (if required) as well as your wheel alignment. Especially important is when you are driving a high tech car relying heavily on computer systems. Have the computerized system checked by your specialist mechanics. Life saving devices like the air bags, antilock breaks etc must checked for safety.

Befriend A Good Mechanic. Not only will you save money, you save yourself lots of anguish from unscrupulous mechanics some of whom change your good parts for bad or recommend unnecessary jobs.

There you have it, great yet simple tips that you must do for car maintenance. You are also playing your part at being environmentally friendly and be rewarded with great cost savings.

Enjoy your ride!

And check out more of Environmentally Friendly Cars Here!