VIDEO from Medialink: What You Need to Know About Hitting the Road Without Breaking the Bank

--With gas prices skyrocketing, it's important to make sure while you're focused on saving pennies at the pump, you are also making other informed decisions regarding the maintenance of your vehicle. Motorists can avoid extra costs this fall in a variety of ways - from choosing the right type of gas and getting regular oil changes, to making sure your car is properly maintained.

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The results of a recent survey conducted by Valvoline and the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) of the nation's top mechanics shows that 87 percent believe American car owners are putting off routine maintenance - which mechanics believe costs owners twice as much in the long run. In addition, 84 percent of mechanics contend that not getting a regular oil change can cause the most problems for a vehicle, including rising fuel costs.

It's no surprise that regular maintenance is important to keeping cars in safe condition and in working order. But how can it help Americans save at the pump? NASCAR team owner Ray Evernham, president and CEO of Evernham Motorsports, comments on the survey.

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