Travel is on the rise as the economy slowly recovers, with Americans logging an increase of 6.6 million miles during 2009, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. As this travel trend is expected to continue, it is essential that drivers take the proper steps to help their vehicles remain durable and to get the most from what may be their second largest investment.

“My entire career has been about keeping cars running strong in some of the most severe conditions,” says Alan Gustafson, crew chief of veteran NASCAR driver Mark Martin’s No. 5 car. “Making your vehicle last is more important than ever these days, and it’s important for drivers to proactively maintain their vehicles after the stress of cold weather months.”
Motor oil is a must: Cold temperatures can wreak havoc on an engine if it is not cared for properly, as cold startups are among the most severe conditions that engines undergo.

Drivers need to protect their vehicles with a quality motor oil to endure the varying temperatures as most of the country changes from cooler to warmer temperatures. The changing of seasons serves as an excellent reminder of the importance of using high quality motor oils in your engine.

As the weather changes, conditions on the road also change. Historically, more drivers take to the highway as the temperatures increase, resulting in increased traffic congestion and heavy stop-and-go traffic conditions. Under these extreme conditions, drivers need a motor oil that will protect their engines from heat and wear.

Make a date to inflate: As the weather gets warmer and temperatures increase, tire pressure changes. Under-inflated tires reduce a vehicle’s fuel efficiency by an average of 3.3 percent, according to www.fueleconomy.gov. Tires should be checked monthly to make sure that they are inflated to manufacturers’ recommendations, which can typically be found on the vehicle door placard or in the glove box. Be sure to avoid over-inflating the tires, as this can lead to premature or irregular tire wear.

Clean your fuel system: Many drivers use a fuel system cleaner in the winter to combat the cold weather conditions and to ease the stress on their engines during cold startups. Continuing the use of that fuel system cleaner after the colder months is also a good idea, as gunk and deposits collect in the fuel system.

It is essential that motorists take the proper steps to make sure their cars are fully prepared for the spring drive, and use quality automotive products to help the vehicle run the way it was intended. For instance, motor oils that do not meet required specs can cause costly engine repairs and ultimately could void the vehicle’s warranty. Additionally, a vehicle using low-quality oils may be more likely to break down which is not only inconvenient, but it also potentially threatens your ability to get to the places you need to be – like your job.