Servicing Your Vehicle
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Inspect your wiper blades regularly. Replacement is recommended twice a year.
- Top off your windshield washer fluid with high quality temperature resistant fluid.
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Reduce friction. Use high-quality synthetic motor oil.
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Check your oil! Low oil makes your engine work harder.
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Change your filters. Dirty filters can sometimes increase the amount of fuel your vehicle uses by as much as 10 percent.
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Keep tires properly inflated and aligned. Check regularly to ensure your wheels are fully inflated and your alignment is good.
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Get regular engine tune-ups and car maintenance checks. A lot can go wrong with a car. Worn service items contribute to poor gas mileage.
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Avoid air conditioning when possible. However, when driving at higher speeds, having your windows open also creates drag.
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Don’t throttle the gas or brake pedal! Sudden starts or stops use more gas than gradual changes in speed.
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Don’t idle for too long. Turn off the engine if you anticipate a lengthy wait.
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Limit car warm-ups in winter.
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Clear out the trunk. More weight equals more drag.
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Avoid high speeds. We know this is almost impossible to resist but you can improve your gas mileage by up to 15 percent driving at 55 mph rather than 65 mph.
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Use overdrive. If your car is equipped with overdrive gearing use it as soon as your speed is high enough.
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Use cruise control. Maintaining a constant speed is ideal for improving your gas mileage.
Common Issues
- Radio says 'Code' after a dead battery. Check your owners manual for a anti-theft code to input. Do not try an incorrect code more than twice.
- TCS/ABS/TRACS Light On. Your traction control and anti-lock brakes may not operate. Schedule a service appointment as soon as possible.
- OIL Light On. Do not drive your vehicle until you check the oil level. If the level is ok do not drive your vehicle. The oil light on many vehicles is for oil pressure. Driving your vehicle may cause engine damage.
- Coolant Light On. Check your coolant level and add only manufacturer approved coolant. If the level dropped significantly shedule service as soon as possible.
- Service Light is on. Many manufacturers have service intervals that are far too long. Swedish Motors Recomends no more than 5,000 miles or 6 months between services. Your service light may come on
