USE ZINC AND PHOSPHOROUS ADDITIVE ON PRE–1980 CARS

If you own a vintage car, make sure a zinc and phosphorous additive is used when the oil change is performed. Automotive oil manufacturers removed these additives because they affected the catalytic converters in newer cars. Older vehicles still need them so make sure the proper additive is used during each oil change. See more at DiamondCertified.org.

KEEP YOUR TIRES INFLATED TO THE PROPER PRESSURE

Under-inflated tires can reduce fuel efficiency as much as 15%—they also wear much faster. Likewise, over-inflation can cause excessive wear. A&A Automotive checks the pressure on all your tires (including the spare) at every service.

PARK YOUR CAR IN A COOL AREA

If your car stays parked in direct sunlight, your gasoline can evaporate out of the tank before you even use it! Avoid direct sunlight where possible. Also make sure your fuel cap is on tight. Three clicks is the standard measure of tightness.

KEEP YOUR AIR FILTER CLEAN

If your engine has a hard time "breathing," it has to work harder, thus it uses more fuel. Keep dirt, leaves, and dead insects from harming your fuel efficiency by installing new air filters every 7,500 to 15,000 miles.

CHECK YOUR OIL

Old oil or low oil levels can increase heat and friction in your engine and can reduce your engine's lifespan.

GOT MIL?

An MIL, or malfunction indicator lamp, means your car's computer has detected a problem that needs your attention. You may know it as a "check engine" light—some GM and Ford MIL's say "Service Engine Soon." These lights are often triggered when your fuel-delivery system has an error relating to—among many other things—a faulty sensor. A&A Automotive uses the same diagnostic computer that dealerships use in order to aid in the diagnosis and repair of this error.

CHECK YOUR A/C

Your air-conditioning system uses an engine-driven compressor that robs the engine of power. Using your air conditioning/defroster as little as possible will add many valuable miles to your tank.

KEEP YOUR CAR TUNED

Everything in your engine affects your fuel economy: spark plugs, distributor caps, and distributor rotors are all vital parts for ensuring that fuel gets burned and turns into horsepower instead of going out the tailpipe as harmful hydrocarbons. Air filters must be replaced regularly to keep a high airflow, and fuel filters need to be changed to ensure proper fuel pressure. Additionally, coolant, which becomes corrosive as it ages, needs to be changed every 30,000 miles—or two to three years—to keep it from eating away at the engine, radiator, and other cooling system components. If it's been too long since your last service, or if you're experiencing poor driveability, it's time to call A&A Automotive.

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