Can Regular Maintenance at Dave’s Complete Auto Service Really Help You Save Gas? Short answer: Absolutely—yes.

Keeping your vehicle well-maintained doesn’t just keep it running smoothly—it can also significantly boost your gas mileage. While you might not always feel the difference in day-to-day driving, you’ll see it over time at the gas pump. Here’s how staying on top of basic maintenance at Dave’s Complete Auto Service in Council Bluffs can reduce fuel consumption and save you money.

✅ 1. Engine Oil: The Friction Fighter

Dirty or low engine oil increases internal friction, which forces your engine to work harder—and burn more fuel. Regular oil changes help your engine operate more efficiently by reducing resistance between moving parts.

📌 Fact: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, using the manufacturer’s recommended grade of motor oil can improve fuel efficiency by 1–2% (DOE).

👉 What to do: Schedule regular oil changes and always use the recommended oil grade and type for your engine.

✅ 2. Tire Pressure: Small Change, Big Impact

Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which means your engine must use more fuel to move the car.

📌 Fact: Properly inflated tires can improve gas mileage by up to 3% (U.S. EPA).

👉 What to do: Check tire pressure monthly, especially with changing temperatures, and inflate tires to the manufacturer’s specs (found on your driver’s door jamb or in the owner’s manual).

✅ 3. Wheel Alignment and Brake Health

When your wheels are out of alignment or your brakes drag slightly due to caliper issues or warped rotors, your vehicle loses efficiency through unnecessary friction.

📌 Fact: Misaligned wheels can reduce fuel economy by as much as 10% and cause premature tire wear (Tire Rack).

👉 What to do: Let our techs at Dave’s inspect your alignment and brakes during routine maintenance.

✅ 4. Fuel System Cleaning: Keep the Injectors Clean

Fuel injectors must deliver the right spray at the right time. Dirty injectors cause uneven combustion and poor mileage.

📌 Fact: Deposits in fuel injectors can reduce fuel economy by up to 7% (EPA Technical Bulletin #420-F-10-027).

👉 What to do: A fuel system cleaning every 30,000 miles (or as recommended) keeps the combustion process efficient.

✅ 5. Spark Plugs, PCV Valves & Air Filters: Small Parts, Big Role

Worn-out spark plugs can misfire and waste fuel. A stuck PCV valve can affect engine airflow and oil condition. Dirty air filters restrict airflow, making the engine work harder.

📌 Fact:

• Replacing fouled spark plugs can improve fuel economy by up to 30% on severely neglected vehicles (EPA).

• A clogged air filter can reduce fuel economy by up to 10% on older engines with carburetors (though less on modern engines with MAF sensors) (DOE).

👉 What to do: Replace spark plugs, air filters, and PCV valves on schedule, or sooner if you notice rough idling, hesitation, or poor gas mileage.

⚙️ Better Maintenance = Better MPG

Maintaining your vehicle isn’t just about preventing breakdowns—it's about maximizing performance and fuel efficiency. At Dave’s Complete Auto Service in Council Bluffs, we focus on smart, preventative care that helps your vehicle go farther on every gallon.

Visit Us Today📍 103 South 12th Street, Council Bluffs, IA 51501📞 712-256-9688🌐 www.davescompleteautomotive.com

Let our team keep your car in peak condition—your wallet and your gas tank will thank you.