Don't lose MPG's this Summer

Here at JB Auto we know that times are tough. With gas prices on the rise this Summer make sure your vehicle is running at its peak before you take off on that Summer trip.  Below is a chart of just some of the ways you could be losing mpg's this Summer.

This chart is based on average fuel economy of 20 miles per gallon (mpg).

Underinflated tires                                 loss of up to .6 mpg

Dirty air filter                                        loss up to 2.0 mpg

Worn spark plugs                                  loss up to 2.0 mpg

Worn 02 sensor                                     loss up to 3.0 mpg

Dirty or substandard engine oil             loss up to .4 mpg

Loose gas cap                                       loss up to 2.0 mpg

A Trouble Free Summer Trip

An unfortunate way to ruin your travels is to start out with a vehicle that has mechanical trouble.  Most highway breakdowns can be avoided through preventive measures that we can perform on "home turf".  Below is a list of what we'll check out before you hit the road:

Cooling System

Drive Belts

Battery

Engine

Lubrication

Suspension, Steering & Tires

Brakes

Exhaust System

Lights/Wipers

Are you Ready for a Flat?

Imagine you've had a flat tire and you're on your own.

Are you safely off the road?

Can you find the jack?  On some vehicles it's under the hood.  On others it's under the seat or above the spare.

Do you know how to assemble the jack and make it work?  Read the directions in your owner's manual or on a sticker under the trunk lid. 

Can you find the spare?  Maybe it's mounted under the vehicle, as in the case of some pick-up trucks and SUV's.  If it's in the trunk, can you get to it?

How long since you checked to see if it's still inflated?

Most cars now have space-saving spares.  They are smaller, lighter and easier to install but they are for emergency use only.  Do not drive long distances on them.

Have the flat tire repaired or replaced and reinstalled as soon as possible.

A good idea is to change a tire in your yard to get familiar with where all items are located and how to use them.  This "practice change" will come in handy if you ever need to change a flat.