Car Stuff We've Learned Along The Way...

The car expert I frequently listen to on the radio recommends (without hesitation), extended warrantees on all your vehicles. He says it might cost $1,000-$1,500, but it's well worth it, cuz the first time you have an engine problem, transmission problem, etc. it pays for itself! He's bought one on each of his vehicles. He said "Wally's" (backed by AIG - the largest insurer in the country) is the best Extended Warranty company to go with.

That same car expert on the radio recommends that you get your fuel injectors PROFESSIONALLY cleaned every 35,000 - 40,000 miles (costs $80 or so at your standard Jiffy Lube type place). He says this will significantly extend the life of your car. Then, in between you should use "Fireball" added to the gas tank semi-regularly as routine maintenance. He said the professional cleaning strips all the carbon that builds up over the years and works miraculously! You get much better gas mileage too.

Ah, then there's the great oil change debate... Do you REALLY need to change your oil every 3,000 miles? The answer seems to be more like 3,000-4,000 miles. It may be the consistency which pays off in the long run, rather than the actual number of miles in question.