Driving Tips & Hints for Low Vision & Disabled Drivers

See Me Drive > Low Vision Driving > Gas Saving Car Care | Maintenance Tips [2]

Gas Saving Car Care | Maintenance Tips [2]

Remove roof racks
When you need to transport your bicycles or skis a roof mounted rack is indispensable, but it does cut into your fuel efficiency. Even when empty bicycle, cargo and ski racks add quite a bit of drag making your car less aerodynamic, which consumes more fuel. Removing them when they are not being used will save you gas and help reduce wind noise on the highway.

Vehicle Service Maintenance
Proper routine maintenance will help extend the life of your car and preserve its resale value. In addition to helping you avoid costly repairs down the road, regular maintenance will optimize your car's performance, safety and extend gas mileage thus saving you big money at the pump, but more importantly keep your warranty valid.

At the very least have the oil changed every three months / 3000 miles at your local dealer or service station. Many advertise "Express Lube" specials, which usually include 5 quarts of premium oil and a replacement oil filter for around $20.00.

3,000 miles Service Maintenance should be:

• Replace Engine Oil
  
• Replace Oil Filter
  
• Check and Top Off All Fluid Levels
  
• Inspect Condition of Hoses and Belts
  
• Inspect Complete Disc Brake System
  
• Set Tire Pressure
  
• Inspect All Lighting Systems
  

15,000 miles Service Maintenance should be:

• Replace engine oil
  
• Replace oil filter
  
• Replace automatic trans-axle, transfer and rear differential fluids
  
• Check and top off all fluid levels
  
• Inspect anti-freeze protection
  
• Inspect complete disc brake system (adjust front and rear)
  
• Inspect steering system including alignment check by test drive
  
• Inspect front suspension and ball joints
  
• Rotate tires and balance front tires
  
• Set tire pressure
  
• Perform tune-up and bring engine to spec
  
• Replace spark plugs
  
• Replace air filter
  
• Clean throttle plate (e.F.I.)
  
• Inspect condition of hoses and belts
  
• Inspect operation of horn, wipers, lights, and heater
  
• Lube all locks, latches, and hinges
  
• Road test vehicle for performance quality check
  

30,000 miles Service Maintenance should be:

• Replace engine oil
  
• Replace oil filter
  
• Replace automatic trans-axle, transfer and rear differential fluids (all-trac & 4WD models)
  
• Check and top off all fluid levels
  
• Drain and refill coolant
  
• Inspect brake linings and drums
  
• Inspect steering system including alignment check by test drive
  
• Inspect front suspension and ball joints
  
• Install grease fittings and lubricate chassis
  
• Inspect drive shaft boots & grease
  
• Repack front wheel bearings (where applicable)
  
• Set tire pressure
  
• Inspect exhaust pipes and mountings
  
• Perform tune-up
  
• Replace spark plugs
  
• Replace fuel filter
  
• Replace air filter
  
• Clean throttle plate (E.F.I.)
  
• Inspect camshaft drive belt (timing belt)
  
• Inspect fuel lines and connections, fuel tank vapor vent system
• Hoses and fuel tank band
  
• Inspect condition of hoses and belts
  
• Inspect intake and exhaust valve clearance (22R, A and E engine models)
  
• Inspect operation of horn, wipers, lights, and heater
  
• Lube all locks, latches, and hinges
  
• Road test vehicle for performance quality check
  

Replace filters regularly
Pretty much covered above. Oil, air and fuel filters should be changed every three months or 3,000 miles whichever comes first. Dirty filters will rob your car of performance and use up more gas since less air gets in thereby creating a richer gas mixture. The low cost of a filter will easily pay for itself in gas savings and a healthier engine. K & N makes premium air filters for most makes and models of cars that are washable and more breathable than conventional paper air filters and can help with performance.

Keep your car clean
A car that is kept clean with a smooth waxed surface offers less wind resistance thus increasing your fuel savings so wash and wax that car. Cyclists and swimmers know this and so should you.

Remember all the above are little things that add up to major gas savings over the life-span of your car.

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Disclaimer

Please understand that not every person with low vision is able to drive. This is a very serious matter that needs to be discussed with those close to you and your low vision doctor. Not only must you have vision good enough for doctors to correct, but you must also be willing to accept the challenge and go through what can be a long and arduous process that can last a year or more. This site is NOT a medical or an authoritative driving site nor affiliated with any and information contained in it does not override professional advice. Every person has different needs and capabilities so use this site merely as a stepping stone and discuss everything with your doctor, DMV official, auto mechanic... first! See the many topics below and feel free to add your driving comments and share your experience. If you know of anyone who would benefit from this site please pass it on to them.