Keeping up with these simple maintenance tips will keep your vehicles running smoothly and stay reliable.

Check tire inflation. Under-inflated tires can result in a loss of fuel efficiency. This is the least expensive form of preventive and safety maintenance. Tires should be checked once a month.

Clean out unnecessary weight and keep your windows closed while driving your vehicle to improve its fuel economy.

The engine is the most expensive part of a vehicle, so make sure to always keep up with regular oil changes. Use high quality oil wherever you take your care to be worked on. Keep your engine tuned. A fouled spark plug or plugged/restricted fuel injector can reduce fuel efficiency by as much as 30 percent.

Inspect engine belts regularly. Worn belts will affect the engine performance. Look for cracks and missing sections or segments.

Take care of your car’s cooling system. Always check all vehicle fluids, which should be brought into shops for testing about every 6 months and coolant levels checked monthly. The third important part of your vehicle to keep up with is the automatic-transmission. This involves renewing the fluid about ever 2 years.

Have the air filtration system checked frequently. The air filter should be checked every other oil change for clogging or damage. This system ensures that the vehicle is performing at its peak condition.

A good rule of thumb is to have is to change your oil filter every 3,000 to 4,000 miles.

Have all fluids checked, including brake, power steering, transmission/transaxle, windshield washer solvent and antifreeze. These fluids play a large role in the safety and performance of the vehicle.

Keep a log of all repairs and service.