Police are crediting an alert citizen with the early morning capture of three men responsible for about a half a dozen auto burglaries at a Moore’s Lane apartment complex.

A resident called Franklin Police at 3:30 this morning after witnessing the men walking through the parking lot checking door handles for unlocked cars.

Responding officers arrived in time to catch up with three suspects in their getaway car as they were leaving the area. Officers observed evidence in that car that led to the arrest of three men.

 

 

Ronald L. McKinley    
Date of Birth: 06/26/1992
3429 Dakota Ave. Nashville

 

Donald W. Oliver
Date of Birth: 01/30/1986
1032 W. Greenwood Ave. Nashville

 

 

 

Lenard A. Chester
Date of Birth: 11/04/1988
1425 Hillside Dr. Nashville

 

Ronald McKinley, 19, 25-year-old Donald Oliver, and 22-year-old Lenard Chester, all of Nashville, were charged with Auto Burglary. Chester was also charged with Simple Possession and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. His bond was set at $9,000, McKinley and Oliver were issued a $5,000 bond. All three men remain in custody this afternoon, and are due in court on 09/15/2011 at 2:00 pm.

(ARA) - With the high cost of fuel, many pickup owners are feeling the burn at the pump. While some consumers may be able to purchase a new truck that gets better gas mileage, many of us are financially stuck with the truck we currently have. To cope, there are several things you can do to save gas money now.

Oil it up: As most auto body technicians will tell you, checking and changing your oil is one of the most overlooked items. Clean oil reduces wear caused by friction between moving parts and removes harmful substances from the engine, ensuring your engine will run at peak performance. And don't forget to keep it clean. You can increase your gas mileage up to 10 percent by ensuring your oil, air and fuel filters are clean.

Fill it up: Fill up with the lowest octane gasoline possible for your vehicle. That pricey premium fuel won't boost your truck's fuel economy or performance. Passing on pricey premium gasoline could save you hundreds of dollars a year, according to the Car Care Council. The council also suggests tightening your gas cap because fuel will evaporate from your tank if it has an escape. Loose, missing or damaged gas caps cause 147 million gallons of gas to evaporate each year, according to the Car Care Council. So be sure to tighten up that gas cap each time you fill up.

Pump it up: Check your tires to make sure they're properly inflated and aligned. Proper inflation can improve gas mileage up to 3 percent. If you don't know what the right pressure is for your tires and truck, consult your owner's manual or stop in at your local tire shop.

Ease on up: It's hard to make changes, but if you really want to see increased gas mileage, it's suggested you avoid unnecessary idling, revving your engine and slamming on the brakes. It is recommended that you stop and start gently, use cruise control when possible and reduce the amount of trips you make each day.

Roll on down the road: The easiest and most rewarding step you can take to see immediate gas mileage improvement is to install a truck bed cover on your pickup. A truck bed cover, also known as a tonneau cover, will reduce drag, making your vehicle more aerodynamic at high speeds. There are several different tonneau cover options available on the market today.

The Access Roll-Up Cover, manufactured by Agri-Cover, Inc., a North Dakota truck accessory company, is an affordable and high-quality option. Made of heavy-duty, double coated vinyl, the roll-up cover installs quickly and easily with a clamp-on installation and is designed specifically to fit your truck. Since the roll-up cover is lockable, it's also great for protecting your gear, all while improving the overall look of your vehicle. When not in use, the cover can be rolled up behind the cab and never has to be removed when hauling larger items. The company estimates that you can save over $200 within the first year of installing an Access Roll-Up Cover on your truck bed.

Richard F. of Bismarck, N.D, knows firsthand the benefits of having a roll-up tonneau cover on his truck.

"I put on many highway miles during the year and in talking to other owners with a similar truck without a box cover, I am amazed at the savings in gas mileage I'm getting with my cover. The Access Roll-Up Cover is such an attractive addition to my truck. It really finishes the look I want."

For more information on the Access Roll-Up Cover and to find out how much gas money you could save, visit www.accesscover.com or call (888) 281-7098.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

(ARA) - You've been dreaming about digging in your garden, tweaking your landscaping or improving your house all winter long. Finally the weather is nice, your yard is clear and dry and it's time for you to get your hands dirty and start working.

Having an off-road vehicle handy can help you save time and money - handling the heavy work that could require additional workers. Here are some ways having an off-road vehicle can help you with the home project you have planned:

* Hauling rocks or mulch around your yard is exhausting. The value-priced Polaris RANGER 400 side-by-side allows you and your helper to move and distribute these materials in different garden beds or around all your trees without tearing up your grass when the machine is set in turf mode.

* Remove dead branches and tow out bushes and trees easily using an off-road vehicle. Just hook up a winch around the bush to the vehicle's bumper and slowly apply pressure as you drive forward.

* Smooth out fresh dirt with a plow. Raking by hand is messy, and takes a lot of time. Instead, hook up a plow to your ATV and gently smooth out the dirt with the plow lowered to the level you want. If the dirt is already level, attach a pull-behind rake to your vehicle to make the dirt perfect for planting or seeding.

* Cart lumber from the driveway to the back patio for easier access to the house project you're working on. This will allow you to take fewer trips and saves your muscles from a few aches and pains, and also splinters. You also can reduce the number of helpers you need for the project - just make sure you have another person handy to help you load up the ATV.

* If you have a boat dock, use your off-road vehicle to tow it into the water for some summer fun.

After all the hard work, take your vehicle out on the trail for a bit of fun. The RANGER 400 side-by-side fits into the bed of a full-sized pickup, making it easy for you and a family member to take a break from the work and hit the trails at up to 40 miles per hour. Don't forget to throw a picnic cooler into the bed so you can extend the trip.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

(ARA) - An annual tradition, Americans have their minds on resolutions for the New Year. While most hope to loosen their pants, others try to tighten their belt. Whether it is through eating out less, shopping less or traveling less, most try to cut costs in their life, timed to the change in the calendar.

Your vehicle can be a great "vehicle" to save money in 2010. By implementing some simple tips, you can save some serious cash in the New Year by paying attention to your vehicle's health.

After their homes, most Americans' second-largest financial investment is their vehicle, so helping it stay in good working order for as long as possible should be a top priority. But, since money is often tight in the given economy, you may be reluctant to spend on services or maintenance that you think can be put off at least for the short term. Such decisions, however, could potentially shorten the life of a vehicle, decrease its fuel efficiency or even put you and your family at risk.

To be prepared for the winter months ahead, here's a simple checklist of tips you should perform to help keep your vehicle running longer, safer and more cost-effectively:

* Check that tread: The economy has forced many to postpone tire purchases, but with the current winter conditions and unpredictable wet spring weather ahead, now is not the time to have low tread on your tires. The lower the tread depth, the less traction you will have on wet roads, and the greater the distance you will need to stop. Advances in tire technology are helping deliver a new generation of moderately priced tires that offer the all-season traction and long tread wear consumers have come to expect, but with enhanced rolling resistance to help save money on gas. For example, the proprietary tread compound used in Goodyear's new Assurance Fuel Max tires helps save 2,600 miles worth of gas over the life of a set of tires.

* Watch for inflation: As temperatures change, so can tire pressure. Proper tire inflation is essential for increased automotive safety, optimum driving performance and significant cost savings, including better fuel mileage. Tires should be inflated to the vehicle manufacturer recommendations printed on the vehicle door placard or in the glove box and should be checked monthly. Over-inflation can lead to premature or irregular tire wear and under-inflation reduces a vehicle's fuel efficiency by an average of 3.3 percent.

* Breathe free: Replacing a dirty air filter can increase a vehicle's life expectancy and fuel efficiency by reducing the strain on the engine, especially during warmer months. Over the winter months, salt, sand and other impurities may build up in a vehicle's air filtration system and could be robbing it of as much as 10 percent in fuel efficiency.

* Keep it clean: Consumers' cars, trucks or SUVs are likely weathering the harsh conditions and corrosive elements associated with winter, including freezing rain, snow, ice, sand and salt. Keeping vehicles clean will help protect them from the chemicals and dirt that may attack the car's finish and undercarriage. Be sure to use quality cleaners and waxes specifically designed for handling a car's finish as regular dish soap will actually break down your wax and could harm the underlying paint.

* Keep it flowing: Oil is the lifeblood of the engine, helping to keep it running efficiently and effectively. Not sure what oil to use? Defer to a professional or use the grade of motor oil recommended by the vehicle manufacturer to achieve optimum engine protection and fuel efficiency.

For more helpful car care advice or information on tires for cars, light trucks, SUVs and more, visit your local Goodyear retailer or go online to www.goodyeartires.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

(ARA) - Ana, Bill, Claudette - the first three Atlantic Ocean hurricanes of the season made headlines, but not to the extent of Katrina or Ike of recent years. And while these three hurricanes have come and gone, who knows if - or when - Grace or Henry might pay a visit to your town?

The 2009 hurricane season has an expected 90 percent chance of being a near-normal, or below-normal season for the Atlantic Ocean, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. This prediction - if accurate - will be welcomed with a sigh of relief by many residents in coastal towns after the above-normal year in 2008.

But even if NOAA is predicting a quiet year for hurricanes, you can never be over prepared. If you don't have your emergency evacuation plan organized, it's time to make one. No matter if you're planning on traveling 100 miles, or 1,000 miles, you need an evacuation plan. As a representative of a Gulf Coast company, Maricela Carter a health safety security environment coordinator with SOPUS, has some tips on how to prepare your vehicle for potential evacuations:

1. Plan evacuation routes.
Check newspapers, online sites, the local emergency broadcast radio station and local television stations for the latest information on official evacuation routes. Purchase a good map with details on elevations, waterways and county roads, and familiarize yourself with the most efficient ways to get out of town.

2. Pack an emergency kit.
Automobiles are susceptible to unexpected problems, so keep an emergency kit in your trunk. Include jumper cables, extra motor oil, window washing, brake and coolant fluids, simple tools like an air pressure gauge, screwdriver, pliers and adjustable wrench, a role of paper towels, a windup flashlight and a can of Fix-A-Flat in case you get a flat tire.

Fix-A-Flat creates a temporary, emergency seal on contact with the tire, and inflates the tire between eight and 14 pounds per square inch so that the car can be driven to a gas station for proper repair of the tire. This can help you to get back on the road and out of the hurricane's way quickly and easily.

3. Fill up the tank.
Everyone is going to need fuel in order to evacuate, so plan to fill up your tank as soon as you hear a hurricane warning. This helps to prevent sudden demands on the supply. Once your tank is full, conserve the amount of gas you use for the next couple of days by combining your errands into one trip and not traveling during rush hour.

4. Check tire pressure.
In order to help conserve fuel, make sure your tires are at the manufacturer's recommended pressure - usually printed on the driver's door of your car. Keeping tires at the correct pressure can improve your gasoline mileage by 3.3 percent, according to fueleconomy.gov, which means you'll be able to travel further when evacuating.

5. Use proper fluids.
Make sure you follow all the manufacturer recommendations for motor oil, which can also improve your gasoline mileage by 1 or 2 percent, according to fuelecomony.gov. One helpful hint is to look for oil that has an "Energy Conserving" label by the American Petroleum Institution to ensure it contains friction-reducing additives.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

(ARA) - In a tough economy, it's only natural to look for ways to cut corners. But trimming auto maintenance expenses isn't worth the risk. Taking proper care of your car steers you on the road to safe driving. It can help to keep more cash in your pocket too. 

"Even the most cautious drivers are putting themselves in danger if they're not driving a well-maintained vehicle," says Charles Valinotti, senior vice president with QBE Regional Insurance. "No one wants to be in a less-than-road-worthy vehicle during an emergency."

Most drivers are diligent about addressing major mechanical issues, especially since today's cars have automatic alerts when a problem surfaces. However, many people overlook the basics - like tires - which can quickly outlive their usefulness. In recent surveys, The Rubber Manufacturers Association reported that nearly two out of three drivers do not know how to tell if their tires are bald and only 9 percent of vehicles have four properly inflated tires.

Valinotti warns that all too often windshield wipers go unnoticed until it is too late. "It's usually after a nighttime auto accident where there's bad weather and little visibility, when a driver realizes that they haven't replaced their wiper blades in years," he says. Holding off on an oil change or spark plug replacement is not worth compromising safety either.

In addition to the peace of mind that comes from having reliable tires, windshield wipers, brakes, suspension and steering systems, there are other benefits from proper car maintenance:

* Save yourself from expensive car repairs after an accident that could've been prevented.

* Extend your vehicle's life span and avoiding replacement costs for big-ticket auto parts. Consult your owner's manual to determine how often you should perform certain services on your car. If you take a long road trip or have greater wear and tear on your car, think of making a visit to your auto mechanic ahead of schedule.

* Save money at the pump. If you drive a car with a poorly tuned engine or tires that aren't properly inflated, you could find yourself filling up the gas tank more often. Fixing a serious maintenance problem, such as a faulty oxygen sensor, can improve mileage by as much as 40 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environment Protection Agency.

* Score some discounts on your auto insurance policy. "We encourage our customers to drive safely and invest in ongoing auto maintenance," Valinotti says. "Our safe driver discount can take up to 10 percent off your premium." Approximately 85 percent of vehicles insured by General Casualty, a QBE Regional Insurance company, get that reward. The safe driver discount is applied automatically and keeps rolling over each year you are accident or violation free.

In between scheduled maintenance checks with a mechanic, drivers should do routine checks on their own, too. It's as simple as referring to the owner's manual for instructions. A little more diligence with car care goes a long way.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

(ARA) - They are your vehicle's only connection to the road, yet most of the time your tires are the last thing you think about. Despite being viewed by many drivers as simply round and black, today's tires are more technologically advanced than ever before. As the technology in tires rapidly advances, so do consumers' options to choose the right tires to meet their vehicle needs.

Vehicle manufacturers carefully outfit their cars and trucks with particular tires that best suit each vehicle's purpose and performance. When those original tires wear out and it is time to shop for replacement tires, there are a few important steps you should take.

Know your size
Check the existing sidewalls and write down the numbers you find there, especially your existing tire size. All four tires should be replaced with ones that are the same size, according to the Rubber Manufacturers Association. However, there are times when a vehicle manufacturer requires different sizes for the front and rear axles, so be sure to check your vehicle owner's manual.

Consider driving conditions
An all-season tire would probably be the right choice for a climate that experiences dry and regular wet conditions, along with light to moderate snowfall. Seasonally, winter tires make sense for those who live in areas that regularly get heavy snowfall or extended periods of icing or wintery mix conditions.

Know what you want
Do you want the quiet comfort of a luxury all-season tire? Increased puncture resistance and extreme off-road traction for rock crawling? Or is it all-season performance and increased fuel economy? Thanks to recent technological advances, today's tires can give vehicles an extra edge in all these areas.

Consider cost
You paid a lot for the technological advancements designed into your vehicle, from traction control to stability control or a sport suspension, but your tires are the only things translating those benefits to the road; if they aren't up to the task, you won't get the full benefit from your investment.

Match needs with tires
The outside of a tire can show a lot about its performance attributes. For example, large, aggressive-looking lugs with big spaces in between are generally good for off-road traction. Deep sweeping channels help evacuate water and slush from a tire to enhance traction. Many small "sipes" in a tire help create additional biting edges to enhance all-season traction.

An asymmetrical tread optimizes traction characteristics across the face of the tire, so the outside can optimize cornering grip, while the middle or inside provides stability and traction.

What's on the inside?
Today's tires feature many specialized compounds and high-tech construction techniques that give them performance attributes. Examples include unique materials such as volcanic ash for icy conditions, and reinforcements such as carbon fiber and Kevlar, which can give sidewalls extra toughness, or dampen sounds and vibrations.

The newest generation of technological innovations is helping create tires that can save money at the fuel pump. Goodyear's new Assurance Fuel Max tires use a technology to better link and distribute materials within the tire compound to improve rolling resistance without sacrificing all-season traction or tread life. The result is a fuel-efficient solution that can potentially save drivers 2,600 miles worth of gas over the life of four tires. (2,600 miles based on a 4 percent fuel economy improvement, on 65,000 Mile Tread Life Limited Warranty, as compared to the standard Goodyear Assurance tire tested on P195/65R15 size - 2008 Honda Civic. Actual results may vary based on when tires are replaced, driving and road conditions, and proper tire maintenance.)

For more helpful information on tire technology or advice on selecting the proper tire for cars, light trucks, SUVs and more, visit your local Goodyear retailer or go online to www.goodyeartires.com. of ARAcontent

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(ARA) - As more Americans stretch their budgets in hopes of accomplishing more with less, many owners of half-ton pickup trucks are purchasing a snowplow to handle their snow removal. Owners who want to put their pickup truck to good use are realizing the benefits of using it as a working, snow-clearing machine.

Smart equipment designed for tough winter weather

Recently, the industry welcomed several new lines of full-sized, full-featured snowplows designed specifically for half-ton pickup trucks for light commercial, institutional and extended home use.

These new snowplows are designed for the weight restrictions of today's half-ton trucks, and are surprisingly quick to attach and detach, making it easy to remove when not in use.
 
These new snowplows for half-tons offer similar features to the larger plows used by professional snowplow contractors, such as steel construction and fast, easy mounting systems. Simple handheld controls allow the operator to hydraulically raise, lower and angle the plow from inside the cab. Many also offer an anti-theft device that allows the operator to electronically lock the snowplow while it is detached, making it inoperable to unauthorized users.

Snowplows for half-ton pickups are available at local truck equipment dealers that specialize in snowplow installation and set-up. Dealers can also provide accessories, parts and service, and answer questions about snowplowing. 

Following are some basic snowplowing tips to guide new users through a successful winter of snow removal.

Plow tips: Proper planning

Prior to the first snowfall, stake the edges of the property to indicate the area that will be plowed. Marking the edges helps ensure you can plow safely and neatly without damaging the surrounding grass, landscape features or other obstacles. Without stakes, it can be difficult to determine the edges of the property. Available at landscape supply outlets, 30-inch wire stake flags are easy to insert into the ground and are tall enough to see even with heavy drifting. Be sure to mark utility boxes and other objects such as gas meters and sewer vent pipes, along with any drop-offs and ditches, to help prevent injuries and costly damage.

Once the snow starts to fall, remember to keep drains clear and unobstructed, so melting snow has an easy, appropriate escape. Furthermore, when determining where to pile snow, think two snowfalls ahead by building snow banks far enough back to ensure room for future snow accumulation.

Some plow owners like to plan ahead for upcoming snowfalls by backing the truck into the garage with the snowplow already mounted, so when they open the door they can simply plow forward.

Plow tips: Safety first

While plowing, always maintain a manageable speed, generally no more than 8 mph. Traveling too fast can push snow onto the windshield, reducing visibility. In addition, although most plows are designed to "trip," reducing the impact if an obstruction is hit, a slower speed will further reduce the potential for injury or damage.

In addition to maintaining safe speeds, you should also avoid overloading the plow blade with too much snow. The snow's depth and water content should determine the width of your pass, or how much of the blade you use for each pass. The goal is to move just enough snow with each pass to get the job done efficiently without overloading your equipment. This is something you'll get a feel for with experience.

Plow tips: Industry techniques

Stacking and back-dragging are two procedures used by snow contractors throughout snowy northern states. Stacking is simply creating a snow pile storage area. As you push the snow toward your predetermined stacking area, slow down and raise the blade as you push the snow into the pile. The blade will climb the pile as you push into it, forcing the snow upward. This will also prevent damaging underlying turf. 

When plowing driveways with a garage or other outbuildings, a method for removing snow that accumulates close to the building is back-dragging. As the name indicates, back-dragging refers to pulling the snow backward, instead of pushing it forward. Begin by driving forward close to the building, lower the blade to the ground, then slowly back up approximately two car-lengths. As you do this, drag the snow back with you from behind the plow blade. Raise the blade and drive forward to the next pass, repeating this process for the full width of the area. When finished, turn around, back the vehicle into the area you just plowed and push the accumulated snow to the designated snow bank.

To read more plowing tips, or for more information on the new full-sized, full-featured snowplows built specifically for half-ton trucks, visit www.PlowsForHalfTons.com. of ARAcontent

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(ARA) - In economic times like these, everyone needs to make the most of their investments, and your personal vehicle is one of the largest investments you'll ever make.

Danny Lawrence, the assistant chief engine builder and trackside engine department manager for Earnhardt-Childress Racing Engines and the No. 29 Shell-Pennzoil Chevrolet, has more than a little experience working with car engines, both in the shop and at home. He notes that by taking extra steps to help keep your car's engine performing at its best, you can help extend the life of your vehicle.

"Because of my role in building engines at work, it's embarrassing if something is wrong with one of my cars at home," says Lawrence. "I probably have way more cars than I should, but I regularly maintain all of them. The key is the engine. I have a Chevy S-10 truck, a four cylinder vehicle with 223,000 miles on it, and it's still running strong because I take the time to maintain the engine."

Lawrence points out that many drivers at home lose track of regular maintenance activities, and he recommends keeping a log on your computer, phone, or with notes in your car.

"Transmission maintenance, a lot of people will forget. Most people won't maintain the belts and fuses on their engines properly," he says. "Antifreeze, oil changes, changing the air filter - these are all things that make a huge difference. Keeping track of what you are doing for your engine helps you keep on top of maintaining your vehicle."

By following the instructions in the user's guide provided by car manufacturers, says Lawrence, drivers can make sure they are doing everything they need to keep their vehicles in top shape. 

Using the right motor oil is another key to maintaining an engine.

"Oil is like the lifeblood of the engine," says Lawrence. "It's not only used for lubrication. It cools engine parts, dampens valve springs, cools pistons -- it serves many purposes. Have you ever put a glove on when you're hitting a baseball to take the shock away? Oil does that to valve springs."

He adds that although many people don't draw the connection, using a high-quality fuel can pay big dividends for a vehicle's engine.

In particular, using a gasoline that contains a cleaning system to help remove gunky build-up on critical engine parts, such as Shell Nitrogen Enriched Gasolines, can make a big difference. The patented Nitrogen Enriched Cleaning System has an active cleaning molecule engineered to seek and destroy performance-robbing carbon deposits - more commonly known as "gunk" - that can be left by lower-quality gasolines. Having gunk build up on critical engine parts, specifically intake valves and fuel injectors, can cause the inefficient mixing of air and fuel necessary for proper combustion. This can rob your engine of performance.

For more information about how the Shell Nitrogen Enriched gasolines work, visit www.passionate-experts.shell.com. sure that you are properly maintaining your engine can help your car last longer, says Lawrence. "Nowadays all cars are made well - how long your vehicle lasts comes down to how you maintain and take care of it."

Courtesy of ARAcontent

(ARA) - The average car and light truck on American roads has reached a record age of 9.4 years, according to a recent survey by R.L. Polk & Co. With new car sales down, consumers across the country are looking to get the most out of their existing cars and to save money whenever possible.

However, spending a little more today on the right maintenance routine with quality products and trusted service technicians can help save money over the long run. Alan Taylor, host of the nationally syndicated show Car & Driver Radio, offers the following simple checklist of tips motorists should perform to help keep their vehicles running longer, safer and more cost-effectively:

Motor oil really does matter
Beyond regular, specified oil changes, automobile manufacturers recommend the use of high-quality motor oils that meet the latest American Petroleum Institute (API) specifications in their particular grade. Consumers should ask for quality motor oils by name because they are formulated to meet the demands of today's engines. Using a quality motor oil in the right grade can help maximize fuel economy, and help save money by preventing costly engine damage. A new, informative Web site - www.MotorOilMatters.org - answers many motor oil questions and dispels many common myths.

Regular preventive maintenance pays off 
Most vehicle manufacturers have two classifications for driving conditions, "normal" and "severe," which they use to recommend how often drivers should have services such as oil changes performed on their vehicle. A driving habits survey conducted for Jiffy Lube found that more than 92 percent of motorists drive in what vehicle manufacturers consider "severe" conditions.

Regardless of the driving conditions, it's important that people follow their vehicle manufacturer's maintenance recommendations. Keeping a vehicle on its proper preventive maintenance schedule will help keep it running smoothly. For instance, the minimal investment of an oil change (generally $25-$35 for a Jiffy Lube Signature Service Oil Change with conventional oil) can help drivers avoid potentially more costly repairs down the road.

Driving style can make a big difference
Aggressive driving wastes gas and can reduce gas mileage by 33 percent on the highway and 5 percent in the city, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Avoid quick or "jackrabbit" starts and stops, and observe the posted speed limits as gas mileage decreases rapidly above 60 mph.

Motorists should plan their route in advance and combine as many errands as possible to minimize time on the road. Especially on longer trips, drivers should take advantage of the cruise control feature if they have it - an Edmunds.com study revealed that using cruise control at highway speeds offered an average fuel economy savings of 7percent.

Use a high-quality gasoline
All gasolines are not the same, and no matter what grade of fuel a vehicle requires, it's important to use a high-quality gasoline. Industry research confirms that a clean engine can result in better fuel efficiency, reduced emissions and overall optimal engine performance. Fortunately, keeping the engine clean of performance-robbing "gunk" helps it perform better and is as easy as choosing the right gasoline. For example, Shell Nitrogen Enriched Gasolines contain a patented cleaning system that seeks and destroys engine gunk left behind by lower-quality gasoline.

Don't lose your grip
Tires are a car's only connection to the road, so making sure they are in good shape and properly inflated is essential for automotive safety, optimum driving performance and potential cost savings, including better fuel mileage. Tires should be inflated to the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations printed on the vehicle door placard or in the owner's manual. Properly inflated tires can improve gas mileage by around 3.3 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy

Watch the weight
If it's not needed, don't take it. Check the vehicle on a regular basis and remove all unnecessary items. Every additional 100 pounds in the trunk could reduce the typical car's fuel economy by up to 2 percent, the Department of Energy reports.

Let the car breathe free
Check that the air filter isn't clogged. Replacing a clogged air filter can improve a car's gas mileage by as much as 10 percent. And it won't just save money; it will also help protect the engine by keeping harmful impurities out.

Regular tune ups pay off over the long term 
Before taking that long trip, motorists should visit a trusted professional and make sure their car is properly tuned. Depending on the kind of repair and how well it is performed, regular vehicle maintenance can improve gas mileage by an average of 4 percent, according to the Department of Energy.

For more information as well as helpful tips and advice, visit www.MotorOilMatters.org or www.fueleconomy.gov. of ARAcontent

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