Global 2011: 10 Ways You Waste Money on Your Car

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With gas bills putting a crimp in your budget, you don't want to be wasting money on other car expenses. But many car owners do just that — either spending more than needed on maintenance or putting off work that will cost more later.

But while neglect doesn't work, neither does overspending. From Sadowski and Michael Calkins, manager of the AAA program that recommends repair shops, here are 10 ways you may be wasting money on your car.

1. Changing oil every 3,000 miles.
2. Using premium fuel unnecessarily.
3. Failing to change your air filter.
4. Failing to check the brake pads.
5. Buying mileage-boosting additives and devices.
6. Tune-ups for your engine or air conditioning.
7. Changing coolant.
8. Ignoring your check-engine light.
9. Buying expensive performance tires.
10. Paying for built-in navigation.

http://finance.yahoo.com/family-home/article/112858/car-maintenance-overspending-moneywatch?mod=family-autos

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Global 2011: Gas Savings Tips That Don't Actually Work

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Have you filled up your car lately and cringed to see how much a tank of gas sets you back? The average cost of a gallon of unleaded gas has climbed above $3, with predictions that international unrest may drive prices even higher. We still have to drive to work and/or school, so we look for ways to squeeze more miles out of that pricey tank -- but do those tricks you hear about amount to real savings? Here are six gas saving tips that don't actually work, and ways you can make the most of a gallon.

1. Turning Off the AC
2. Filling Up When It's Cold Outside
3. Increasing Tire Pressure
4. Pouring Additives
5. Changing the Air Filter
6. Keeping the Engine Running

The Bottom Line

There are a lot of myths out there when it comes to saving gas. So what does actually help improve your fuel economy? Instead of looking at your car to improve fuel economy, try changing the way you drive. Calm driving on the highway -- not zipping between lanes, tailgating or revving the engine so you quickly get up to speed -- can improve your fuel efficiency a whopping 33%. Remove any excess weight from your car to bump fuel economy another 2%, and drive sixty miles an hour (when the speed limit allows) on the highway for another 23% improvement in fuel efficiency. In the end, best fuel economy comes from a calm and safe driver, something that's a good thing regardless of the price we pay at the pump.

http://finance.yahoo.com/family-home/article/112266/gas-savings-tips-that-don't-actually-work?mod=series-e-article

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