It’s National Informed Women Month and National Car Care Month

By Jody DeVere, automotive expert and CEO of www.AskPatty.com

After a long hard winter like we’ve just had, several car care considerations can protect the performance and longevity of your vehicle, beginning with motor oil– your vehicle’s life blood.

High-quality motor oils are designed to fulfill higher-spec demands that apply to millions of cars. Pennzoil and Quaker State, for example, invest heavily in comprehensive product testing – in the lab, on the road, and at the racetrack – to ensure its oils meet the demands of today’s engines. Oils that do not meet required specs can lead to costly engine repairs or could ultimately void the vehicle’s warranty. An informative Web site – www.MotorOilMatters.org – answers motor oil questions and dispels many common myths.

Following this simple checklist of tips can also help keep your vehicle running longer, safer and more cost-effectively:

Pump high-quality gasoline

All gasoline is not the same, and no matter what grade of fuel a vehicle requires, it’s important to use a high-quality gasoline. Industry research confirms that a clean engine can result in better fuel efficiency, reduced emissions and overall optimal engine performance.

Don’t lose your grip

Tires are a car’s only connection to the road, so make sure they are in good shape and properly inflated to improve gas mileage.

Let the car breathe free

According to the Department of Transportation, replacing a clogged air filter on cars with fuel-injected, computer-controlled gasoline engines can improve acceleration time by around six to 11 percent.

You can’t avoid what you don’t see

Ninety percent of all driving decisions are made based upon visual input. Inspect your wiper blades and replace them with a quality brand blade, like Rain-X, if they are cracked, torn, cut or streaking so you can see clearly.

Regular tune-ups pay off over the long term

Before taking a long trip, visit a trusted professional and make sure your car is properly tuned. Depending on the kind of repair and how well it is performed, regular vehicle maintenance can improve gas mileage by an average of four percent, according to the Department of Energy.

For more information as well as helpful tips and advice on motor oil, visit www.MotorOilMatters.org or for additional women-friendly automotive advice, visit www.AskPatty.com.