MEMPHIS, Tenn., April 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- With record-high gas
prices, AutoZone (NYSE: AZO), the nation's leading auto parts retailer, says
this is a great time to make sure consumers are getting the most out of every
tank. And, with April being National Car Care Month, it is a great time for a
spring tune-up to help you do just that. These money-saving tips from AutoZone
can help you maximize your fuel economy and keep your car performing at its
peak:
Replace worn-out oxygen sensors. A fouled or worn-out oxygen sensor causes
performance problems, is the leading cause of emissions test failures, and
could increase your annual fuel costs by $150 or more. Changing an oxygen
sensor is as easy as changing a spark plug -- AutoZone will even loan you the
tool to do it for free!
Install a new air filter. A dirty air filter blocks airflow to the engine
and makes it work harder, causing a decline in horsepower and fuel economy.
Replace your air filter every 12,000 miles to keep your engine running like it
should.
Don't forget the "forgotten filters." The fuel filter, PCV valve and
breather element are often referred to as "forgotten filters" because they're
often neglected during a routine tune-up. Change them every 12,000 miles to
ensure proper performance and fuel efficiency.
Clean out your fuel system. Rough idle, engine hesitation and declining
fuel economy are often due to fuel system deposits. Adding a fuel system
cleaner to your gas tank after every oil change (every three months or 3,000
miles for most drivers) removes deposits and restores engine performance and
fuel economy.
Lay off the high-octane (if possible). Don't use premium fuel if your car
does not require it (check your owner's manual); it's an unnecessary expense,
and it could even reduce your fuel economy.
Get a new gas cap. Most drivers wouldn't think of replacing a gas cap
unless they lost the old one. But a gas cap with a faulty seal could cost you
$50 worth of gasoline a year due to evaporation.
Don't be a lead foot. Anticipate merging traffic and stoplights --
decelerate and accelerate smoothly. Avoid sudden or jackrabbit starts. Use
cruise control when on long stretches of road.
Be Car Care Aware. AutoZone and the National Car Care Council want to
remind you that taking an active role in maintaining your vehicle is the best
way to avoid costly damage down the road. For more information on how to keep
your car running right, visit your local AutoZone store or log on
to http://www.autozone.com or http://www.carcare.org .
As of February 12, 2005, AutoZone sells auto and light truck parts,
chemicals and accessories through 3,474 AutoZone stores in 48 states plus the
District of Columbia in the U.S. and 67 AutoZone stores in Mexico and also
sells the ALLDATA brand diagnostic and repair software. On the web, AutoZone
sells diagnostic and repair information and auto and light truck parts
through http://www.autozone.com .
SOURCE AutoZone, Inc.
04/19/2005
/CONTACT: Media, Ray Pohlman, +1-901-495-7962, or
ray.pohlman@autozone.com , or Financial, Brian Campbell, +1-901-495-7005, or
brian.campbell@autozone.com , both of AutoZone, Inc./
/Web site: http://www.autozone.com
http://www.carcare.org /
(AZO)