With the high cost of gasoline these days, everyone is looking for tactics to help cut costs at the pump. One of the easiest ways to get more mileage for your money is to tune up your car.

Despite the misconception that many late-model vehicles no longer require tune-ups, all cars require routine maintenance in order to avoid performance problems such as hard starting, misfiring, surging, hesitation, and stalling. And just as important, a proper tune-up will also save you money at the gas pump!

Here are some ways to help you maximize your fuel economy and keep your car performing at its peak:

	Spark Plugs • Fouled, damaged, or worn-out spark plugs can cause drivability problems and rob fuel efficiency. • Replace your spark plugs every 30,000 miles to maximize power, performance, and fuel economy.
	Spark Plug Wires • Extreme underhood temperatures, voltage spikes or corrosion can damage plug wires. • Replace your plug wires when you replace your spark plugs to avoid problems like hard starting, hesitation, and misfiring.
	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 the air filter every 12,000 miles to keep your engine running like it should.
	Forgotten Filters • The fuel filter, PCV valve and breather element are often neglected during a routine tune-up, which can lead to a number of drivability problems. • Change them every 12,000 miles to ensure proper performance and fuel efficiency.
	Fuel System Cleaner • 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 removes deposits and restores engine performance and fuel economy.