(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) - 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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(ARA) - The government backed "Cash for Clunkers" rebate program helped dealers sell off 2009 models, and a wave of new vehicles is coming in anticipation of the federal mandate that cars average 35.5 mpg by 2016. If you haven't updated your vehicle in years, it will be more important than ever to analyze your needs and wants before you buy.

The choice is much more complicated than simply picking a small, mid-size, or large vehicle. If you're considering a hybrid, you might be happy to hear the reality behind some common myths about the dependability of dual-powered vehicles.

Fleets of Toyota Prius and Ford Escape hybrid taxis in Vancouver, San Francisco, and New York City have reliably been in service for more than 200,000 miles. The first generation Toyota and Honda hybrids were introduced more than a decade ago and there are definitely thousands of satisfied hybrid owners.

Another misconception of gas-electric hybrid vehicles is that they are expensive to maintain. With the exception of the hybrid's battery system, there is some crossover in parts between hybrids and gas-powered vehicles.

The batteries in a hybrid or electric vehicle don't get better with age. No one expects the batteries in a 15-year-old electric razor to still hold a charge, and the same will probably be true for a 15-year-old hybrid vehicle. Hybrid batteries are typically covered by at least an eight-year warranty. The replacement cost for new nickel-metal hydride Prius batteries keeps dropping, but a new battery pack still costs around $2,000.

A check of the RockAuto.com online auto parts catalog shows hybrids often share fuel injectors, oxygen sensors, water pumps, brake pads, shock absorbers, air conditioners and other commonly replaced parts with conventional, gasoline-powered models. Hybrids do have unique and expensive parts like the Prius' $3,700 power inverter, but RockAuto.com shows routine repairs and maintenance for a hybrid do not always have to cost more.

The RockAuto.com Repair Index automatically pulls prices from the company's vast auto parts catalog based on year, make, model and type of part. It's a quick, easy way to compare parts costs for different models and the results can be surprising.

While some cars may be appealing because they are better for the environment or great on gas savings, for the average driver some fully electric cars may not be worth the cost to purchase or maintain.

A new lithium ion battery pack for the fully-electric Tesla Roadster - with a sticker price of $101,500 - costs around $36,000. New 100 percent electric vehicles by Chevrolet, Chrysler, Nissan and Mini will have lithium battery packs that cost more than $10,000.  A battery pack's limited shelf life means a fully electric or even a gas-electric hybrid might not be the best choice for a retiree planning to drive 3,000 miles a year for 20 years and then pass the vehicle down to a favorite grandchild.

For more information on the availability of parts without the expense of getting repairs done only at the dealership, go to www.rockauto.com. of ARAcontent

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(ARA) - A few minutes in the garage before the bitter cold hits could help prevent a more time-consuming and unpleasant experience during the winter. Cold weather will only make existing problems worse, according to the experts at the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). It's a good idea to read the owner's manual and follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedules.

Here are a few more winter car tips that are easy and simple to do:

* Tires - Worn tires can be extremely dangerous in rain, snow and on ice. Examine tires for remaining tread life and uneven wearing. Be sure to check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks as well. All-season radials or winter tires are a wise investment for those who must drive in inclement weather regularly. Check tire pressure and rotate the tires as recommended. Don't forget to check your spare and be sure the jack functions properly.

* Cooling system - Regularly check the level, condition and concentration of the coolant. A 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water is usually recommended. Check hoses for cracks and leaks.

* Windshield wipers - Check wiper blades and replace them if needed. Rubber-clad blades can fight ice buildup. Stock up on windshield washer solvent. If you don't have an ice scraper, get one before you need it.

* Battery - If your battery is beyond its recommended service life, replace it. Top any low battery cells with distilled water. Clean and tighten battery terminals to ensure electricity gets to the starter on chilly mornings. If there's corrosion, clean it with a mixture of baking soda and water and put on a set of battery washers to keep corrosion from coming back. Make sure the battery terminals and hold-downs are tight. Clean and lubricate hinges and the hood latch.

* Fuel - It's important to keep gas lines from freezing in cold weather. A full gas tank will help keep moisture and ice from forming. Particularly cold weather may warrant a fuel deicer. A block heater is another option that is fairly inexpensive and easy to use.

* Motor oil - The easiest way to protect and improve the performance of your car is to upgrade to a high-performance synthetic motor oil and change the oil regularly. Synthetic motor oils have better low-temperature fluidity and a lower coefficient of friction than mineral-based motor oils. This helps ensure easier start-ups on cold weather days. Some motor oils, such as Royal Purple, are actually formulated with molecules that chemically bond with engine components for continuous engine protection. Additionally, Royal Purple motor oil has been shown to improve fuel economy, reduce emissions and increase horsepower and torque.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

(ARA) - It's one of the most important vehicle-related purchases you can make, yet a whopping 62 percent of women and nearly half of all men think it's difficult, according to a recent survey. What is this process that so many American car owners consider a hassle? Buying new tires.

"Most people barely have time to do what they need to do every day, let alone find extra time to shop for tires, but driving on worn-out tires is a safety hazard and replacing them should be a priority," says Lauren Fix, the "Car Coach," a nationally recognized automotive expert who travels the country talking to people about their cars.

Though close to 85 percent of American women are responsible for the maintenance of their vehicles, many don't know when it's time to buy new tires or what they need to know to buy the right ones for their cars, the national survey by TireBuyer.com revealed. The survey also showed that 21 percent of men admit they don't know as much as they think they should about buying tires.

For all those American motorists who aren't sure when their vehicle needs new tires and how to go about purchasing them when it does, Fix offers a few simple tips:

A penny really can save

"One penny can spare you a dangerous blowout," Fix says. It's a tried and true test of tire tread - stand a penny on its edge in a tread groove. Make sure Abe's head is pointing down, into the tire tread. If you can see the top of his hair or any of the penny background above his head, it's time to replace your tires. If you can't see the hair on top of his head, your tire treads should still be OK to drive on. And remember, tires don't wear evenly so repeat the test on several spots on the tire.

Keep the manufacturer's advice in mind

Most manufacturers will give you an estimated amount of miles their tires will be safe for. Be sure you know what their recommendation is for your tires and vehicle, and keep a close eye on tire tread depth as you approach that mileage limit. If you're buying a used vehicle, be sure to have your mechanic check the tire treads and find out from the current owner when he or she last replaced the tires.

Well-cared-for tires are safer tires

The quality and condition of your vehicle's tires directly affect your safety on the road. Visually inspect tires at least once a month, looking for excessive or uneven tread wear, cracks or bulges on the sidewalls or tread, tread separation, and signs of punctures, or nails, screws, glass or stones imbedded in the treads.

Check for proper inflation at least once a month. Under-inflation is the leading cause of tire failure, and can impact how your car handles and its fuel efficiency. Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual or the sticker on the inside of your car's door jamb for proper tire pressure.
 
Exceeding passenger and cargo load ranges is the second leading cause of tire failure. Check the code on your tire's sidewall and your owner's manual for the maximum load range for your vehicle and don't exceed that range.

Finally, replacing all four tires at the same time ensures maximum safety, performance and efficiency.

What to do when it's time to buy

Go online. The TireBuyer.com survey showed that both men and women like the idea of buying tires online, citing the convenience, ease of purchase and the opportunity to see prices before buying in a pressure-free environment. Online purchasing is also appealing, survey respondents said, because they can instantly view the selection that would fit their car. They also liked the ability to have the tires shipped free from TireBuyer.com to the certified dealer of their choice.

The easy-to-navigate site allows buyers to browse from an inventory of more than 3 million tires and wheels, narrow their search to products that fit their car, and use 3-D imaging to see how any tire or wheel combination will look on their vehicle. Once they choose a tire, they can purchase online and pay for the tires and installation - done by the certified local tire dealer of their choice.

"Driving around on worn-out tires isn't safe," says Fix. "Tires are the only point of contact cars have with the road. If you want to keep your car longer than usual because of the economy, then the best investment you can make is regular maintenance and buying new tires when you need them."

For more tire buying advice, go to www.TireBuyer.com. of ARAcontent

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(ARA) - Even with the success of the "Cash for Clunkers" program, the auto industry is limping through the recession and most car dealers are still in need of increased sales. It may be a buyer's market, but that's no reason to let your guard down in the showroom. Experienced salespeople have one goal in mind: to put you in a new car today. And it's their job to get as much profit out of every sale as possible.

While most car salespeople are honest and forthright, says Howard Krueger, a former car salesman, others may be looking to take you for a ride. So before you set foot on the lot, be aware of sales tactics that could bait you into paying hundreds or thousands more than you should. Krueger, now an Internet auto sales manager for USAA, offers a few of the more common sales strategies:

The four square:
A salesman puts four numbers in front of you: the new vehicle price, your trade-in value, your down payment, and the monthly payment. He's looking for your "hot button." When you focus on one of the numbers (say you demand more for your trade-in) he knows he can hook you by meeting your terms on that part of the deal. Problem is, the other three numbers are already inflated to favor the dealer.

The waiting game:
"Let me go talk to my manager and see what I can do," says the salesman. It's a classic technique. After what seems like ages, the salesman returns, ostensibly exhausted from negotiating on your behalf. "My boss is willing to come down - this is the best deal we've given anyone on this car." Don't bite. The dealer's betting that the longer you sit, the more anxious you'll be to reach an agreement.
 
The turnover house:
Sometimes the sales manager comes to talk to you himself. Now that you're talking to the boss, you'll know you're getting the best possible deal. The truth is, the "boss" is a professional closer, brought in to win you over when the first string can't. It's not uncommon to go through three layers of sales people before you reach the dealer's true best offer.

The sympathy play:
"Hey, I need to make a little money on this deal, too," he says, citing the struggling economy or, worse, four kids to feed. It's only fair for the dealer to make a reasonable profit, but don't be guilted into paying too much. Rest assured the dealer won't knowingly lose money just to earn your business.

The now-or-never:
"This deal is only good for today," or, "there's another buyer interested in this car" - whatever the salesman's story, some dealers rely on fear tactics to rush you into a sale. You know better.

The free extras:
To sweeten the pot, your salesperson might throw in pinstriping, rust-proofing, or fabric protection at no extra cost. But unbiased experts agree that these add-ons aren't worth much, despite what the dealer usually charges for them. Your best bet is to ignore them.

Being street-smart about sly sales techniques is one thing; sticking to your guns and actually getting a good deal is another. So how can you tilt the odds back in your favor? The answer is simple: research.

The Internet has helped level the playing field for consumers. Thanks to sites like Edmunds.com and member-based resources such as USAA's Car-Buying Service, you can enter the dealership armed with more information than the salesman himself.

Not only can you research your preferred vehicle and every available bell and whistle, you can find out the dealer's invoice (also known as dealer's cost) and uncover special incentives and rebates.

It's also smart to know the fair value of your trade-in (visit Kelly Blue Book at kbb.com), get a quote for insurance on the new vehicle, and get pre-approved for auto financing. Lining up these numbers in advance simplifies your negotiation in the sales office. Still, be sure to set aside plenty of time for your visit to the dealership, and avoid distractions while you focus on getting the best deal.

An even simpler approach to consider is having the price negotiated for you before you step foot on the car lot. Taking advantage of car-buying programs that offer these special member prices and services can save you time, money and the hassles of negotiations.
 
With solid knowledge about what you want and how much it should cost, you'll know how to spot a good deal. And all the slick salesmen in the world won't be able to change your mind.

Courtesy of ARAcontent