car care tips

Servicing Your Vehicle

  • Inspect Your Wiper Blades Regularly

    Replacement is recommended twice a year. 

  • Top Off Your Windshield Washer Fluid

    High-quality temperature resistant fluid recommended.

  • Reduce Friction

     Use high-quality synthetic motor oil.

  • Check Your Oil

    Low oil makes your engine work harder.

  • Change Your Filters

    Dirty filters may increase the amount of fuel your vehicle uses by as much as 10%. 

  • Keep Tires Properly Inflated and Aligned

    Check regularly to ensure your wheels are fully inflated, and your alignment is good.

  • 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.

Driving Habits

  • Avoid Air Conditioning When Possible

    However, when driving at higher speeds, having your windows open also creates drag.

  • Don’t Throttle the Gas or Brake Pedal

    Sudden starts or stops use more gas than gradual changes in speed.

  • Don’t Idle for too Long

    Turn off the engine for lengthy waits.

  • Limit Car Warm-ups in Winter

    Low oil makes your engine work harder.

  • Clear Out the Trunk

    More weight equals more drag.

  • Avoid High Speeds

    We know this is almost impossible to resist, but you can improve your gas mileage by up to 15% by driving at 55 mph rather than 65 mph.

  • Use Overdrive

    If your car is equipped with overdrive gearing, use it as soon as your speed is high enough.

  • 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 owner's manual for an 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 schedule service as soon as possible.

  • Change Your Filters

    Dirty filters may increase the amount of fuel your vehicle uses by as much as 10%. 

  • Service Light On

    Many manufacturers have service intervals that are far too long. Swedish Motors Recommends no more than 5,000 miles or 6 months between services - your service light may come on.