Frugal and Smart Ways to Save While Maintaining Your Automobile

Use baking soda on a damp rag to remove bugs and tar  from paint. grill and/or chrome trim.


Had a child in a car seat? Place an old towel, mat, tablecloth etc...under the car seat to catch spills before they get on seat.


If you have a favorite candle, take the leftover wax and put it in some cheesecloth or sock, tie a knot and put under the car seat for a nice car freshener.


Use clear plastic runners sold for the home for car mats. Just cut it to the size you need.


Use a 50/50 solution of vinegar and water with a toothbrush to remove spilled soda from your cars interior.


Keep your tires inflated at the correct pressure. This provides better gas mileage, longer life for your tires and better traction and control.


Do maintenance yourself. If you can't do this look for coupons to use at your local shops.


Homemade Windshield Washer Fluid - 1 tbsp liquid detergent, 3 cups rubbing alcohol, 1 gal water.Mix three cups of this solution in a gallon of water for the final product.


Try Lysol Basin Tub and Tile cleaner to clean whitewalls.


Wipe windshields and windows with straight white vinegar after you park in the evening on cold nights to help keep ice and frost down.


Use 70% isopropyl (rubbing alcohol) to remove pine sap from your car without damaging your finish.


Maintenance Check List
Air Filter- Check it every other month and replace if dirty.  Always replace this every 10,000 miles.
Antifreeze- Check the level monthly, and have the system flushed once a year.
Belts and Hoses- Check these on occasion, generally at oil change intervals.
Brake Fluid – Check the brake fluid at every oil change.  The fluid should be flushed and replaced every two years or 24,000 miles.
Power-Steering Fluid – Another item to check when changing the oil.  Be sure to inspect the pump and hoses for leaks, and always check this system before a long trip.
Transmission Fluid – Check along with the oil and replace once a year.

Always keep emergency supplies in your vehicle. Including but not limited to food, water, flashlight, first aid kit, blanket, salt (for winter), deicer, ice scraper, gloves, blanket, etc...