Celebrate Earth Day With a Tune-Up - Oh Yeah Baby!

BETHESDA, Md., April 19, 2007; Celebrate Earth Day on April 22 by treating your car to a tune-up and get better mileage in return. According to the Car Care Council, even today's modern vehicles need a periodic tune-up.

The council recommends a 21st Century tune-up for modern vehicles during which the fuel, emissions and ignition systems are checked, as well as the battery, charging and starting system, and the engine mechanical and the powertrain control systems.

In addition to a tune-up, a clean air filter and properly inflated tires improve fuel efficiency and help the environment, as do regular oil and oil filter changes. Air filters are usually inspected during an oil change, which should be done every three months/3,000 miles or per the owner's manual. Tire pressure should be checked monthly.

"A well-maintained vehicle is not only environmentally friendly, it also performs better, is safer and more reliable, and saves money at the pump," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. "For example, properly inflated tires last longer and postpone being dumped in a landfill."

White reminds vehicle owners that many fluids and components replaced during vehicle service should be properly recycled or disposed of. They include oil and oil filters, coolant, batteries, tires, and brake, transmission and power steering fluids.

Individual driving habits, such as staying within the speed limit on the highway and avoiding jackrabbit starts, hard stops and racing the engine, can also contribute to better fuel efficiency. If a car idles or warms up for a long time, fuel is wasted. To save gas, the warm-up time should be minimal and a vehicle shouldn't idle for more than 30 seconds.

The Car Care Council is the source of information for the "Be Car Care Aware" consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers.