Tips Stuck with a clunker

By Laura T. Coffey
Contributor TODAYShow.com
Updated 2:03 ET Clock September 18, 2009

After dominating the headlines and the imagination of the drivers for several weeks, ended federal money for the ceramics program at the end of August. Maybe you're among consumers who unsuccessfully attempted to score the $ 4500 trade in a gas-guzzler for new, energy-wheels. Oder er lief einfach keine Zeit mehr, für das Programm bewerben. If you have an older car driving in the city, what should you do?

In summary must enter your travel TLC than what is reasonably possible. Kristin CarMD.com Brocoff Corp. and the woman said the Car Care Council with a Board that is good for the drivers of the maintenance of older vehicles' memories, do not take their vehicles to junk.

Indeed! If your trip is for the most part can not be replaced but now it does not expand on maintenance, because they fear will be absorbed by a financial rabbit hole. In contrast, regular maintenance can save hundreds, if not thousands of dollars in the long run. The following tips can help extend the life of your vehicle without too much.

1. Remember, routine things. By getting regular tuneups and inspections of vehicles, can avoid the problems of fuel consumption by a clogged air filters or worn spark plugs and ignition parts caused. Even if you skip an oil change and press for a week and then another week, then another week, you will be high after anger dollar. To find out how often you do these things, you should find the book that came with your vehicle manufacturer's instructions and maintenance program. The cost to take these actions: $ 20 to $ 250
2. Check the "Check Engine" light. CarMD A survey showed that 10 percent of U.S. drivers drive with their "Check Engine" lights up, and half of the drivers had their lights on for more than three months. "People have fear because they do not want to spend the money, but the light passes through a variety of reasons, including many small things," said Brocoff. The reasons may be as minor as a loose gas cap or the need for a new sensor or air filter, she said. Costs for the "check engine" light has been tested: $ 0 to $ 100.

3. Pay attention to your tires. He pointed out that appropriate Brocoff keeping tires inflated can improve fuel economy by up to 30 percent. Proper tire inflation also help the tires last longer. In addition to these steps, you have your tires rotated every 5000 to 7500 miles or less, and that their wheel alignment checked periodically. Some stores will check your tires and turn to you for free. The cost to take these actions: $ 0 to $ 120.

4. Be gentle with the brakes. Save with the first brake problems almost always money. For example, a brake rotor or as part of the specifications can be used in only a few miles, when starting a worn brake pad to dig into it. As a general rule, however, for the reasons and evidence require, if nothing else should the brake pads or shoes than be replaced and the rotors or drums must be resurfaced. The cost of a typical brake job: $ 130 to $ 300

5. Be alert for safety recalls or technical service bulletins. If you wish to recurring problems with your vehicle, you can not be alone. Ask your shop if there are any technical service bulletins go for the brand and the model was given. Note also that the coming security information to their unwanted mailbox Brocoff seems to remember, said. Open the e-mail, which is connected to their vehicle model that could work for a free repair. Cost of the stay on these questions: Free.