2008-06-05 23:42:28 -

www.waltswrench.com - The Frause Group for Walt's Auto Care Centers Christina Starr, 206-352-6402 ext. 110 cstarr@frause.com With gas prices on the rise, Walt's Auto Care Centers is offering tips to improve fuel efficiency during the summer driving season. Doug Danstrom of Walt's shares maintenance ideas to make each tank last longer as gas prices shoot past $4.00 a gallon. Walt's

is a locally owned neighborhood repair shop with over 20 Puget Sound locations (www.waltswrench.com).

"A well-maintained car uses gas better," said Danstrom. "To cope with high gas prices, drivers can reduce the number of trips to the pump during the summer driving season with a few preventative measures."

According to the Federal Energy Information Administration (EIA), the nationwide average for regular gas is $3.93, up 19 percent from 2007. Washington's gas prices are higher, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA), with an average of $4.14. AAA Washington also indicates many are taking trips closer to home to manage costs.

Walt's tips include:

Replace the air filter. Replacing a dirty filter can improve fuel efficiency as much as 10 percent, saving about $.41 per gallon. Most manuals recommend replacing filters every 9,000 miles.

Change engine oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Dirty oil can cause vehicles to lose 1 to 2 percent, or $.04 to $.08 per gallon.

Perform a fuel system tune-up. A tune-up can improve fuel-efficiency as much as 4 percent.

Perform a transmission flush. A transmission not at peak performance can decrease fuel efficiency. Symptoms of a transmission needing service include rough shifting and gear slippage.

Check tire pressure. Under-inflated tires can significantly reduce fuel efficiency. Check to ensure proper inflation and save 3 percent or $0.12 per gallon.

Danstrom also advocates some common sense tips. Removing unnecessary weight, like luggage racks, can increase fuel efficiency 1 to 2 percent for every 100 pounds of weight removed. Fuel efficiency also decreases at speeds of 60 miles per hour or more. Save as much as $0.26 to $0.86 per gallon by observing speed limits.

About Walt's Auto Care

Walt's Auto Care Centers have served neighborhoods in the Puget Sound for almost 50 years. With over 20 locations, Walt's continues to help customers maintain and repair their vehicles. For more information, call 1-888-GO-WALTS (1-888-469-2587) or visit www.waltswrench.com.

Inexpensive Fixes Can Significantly Improve Fuel Efficiency as Gas
Prices Rise During the Summer Driving Season