Is your summer road trip just around the corner? If so, you’re probably already budgeting for how much you’ll need to set aside for gas money. Even though gas prices have reached a more affordable price range (so long $3.00 per gallon!) the cost of driving your family to and from your destination is expensive.

If you’re looking for an easy way to cut costs, here’s a helpful tip: Visit your mechanic!

Local car repair shops like ours keep your car well-maintained – and that has a direct impact on your car’s fuel economy.

Here’s how:

Clean Air Filter

If you keep pumping dirty air through your engine, you’re wasting energy. It’s as simple as that. Having a clean air filter can save you as much as 2 miles per gallon.

Tire Pressure Checks

Your tires must stay properly inflated if you want to drive safely on the road, but did you know that your tire pressure also impacts your fuel economy? Underinflated tires could cost you as much as 1 to 2 miles per gallon.

Fuel Caps

Don’t let that precious fuel leak away because your fuel cap isn’t tightly secured. If you’re missing a fuel cap, you could also be missing out on savings of up to two miles per gallon.

Spark Plugs

If you’re not familiar with how your engine runs, you’re not alone. Spark plugs are something that most car owners know they need but aren’t sure why. Spark plugs create combustion in the engine, which is essential to helping your car run more efficiently. Having your spark plugs checked before you leave could save you up to two miles per gallon.

O2 Sensors

The oxygen sensors in your car help you create the perfect fuel to air ratio. Without this, you could be losing as much as three miles per gallon!

Fuel Filters

Dirt and rust are serious threats in Arizona. Don’t let them destroy the efficiency of your engine. Checking your fuel filter before you drive can save you up to 1.5 miles per gallon.

Alignment

Your tires might be properly inflated, but are they properly aligned? If not, your car could be running with the same efficiency as having your foot on the brake. Get a free alignment check and save yourself up to 1.5 miles per gallon.

The Bottom Line

It’s your vacation and you want to enjoy it. Take your car to one of your local auto mechanic shops (like Rita Ranch Automotive & Tire) and have it checked before you hit the road. Your wallet will thank you.