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If your wallet feels a little heavier these days, it probably is because you have been spending a lot less at the pump. According to the Car Care Council, if you spend some of that gas savings on auto care, you can save even more in the long run.

“Gas prices are lower than they have been for nearly six years and that means big savings for motorists,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “Add to that a proactive auto care plan and you will not only save more now, but as gas prices start to rise again, you’ll save later. All because you invested in your vehicle to make sure it runs efficiently.”

The non-profit Car Care Council encourages motorists to be car care aware and perform simple steps to improve fuel economy and save money.

Engine Performance: Keep your engine running efficiently and improve gas mileage by an average of 4 percent.

Tire Pressure: Keep tires properly inflated and improve gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent.

Motor Oil: Improve gas mileage by 1 to 2 percent by using the grade of motor oil recommended by the manufacturer.

Air Filters: Replacing clogged air filters on older vehicles can improve fuel economy and will improve performance and acceleration on all vehicles.

Gas Cap: Damaged, loose or missing gas caps allow gas to vaporize into the air.

Fix It: Addressing a serious maintenance problem, like a faulty oxygen sensor, can improve mileage by as much as 40 percent, according to www.fueleconomy.gov.

In addition to vehicle maintenance, modifying driving habits, such as observing the speed limit and avoiding quick stops and starts, can also increase fuel efficiency. Consolidating trips, avoiding excessive idling and removing unnecessary items from the trunk are also easy ways to lower fuel consumption.

To help motorists increase fuel economy and take better care of their vehicles, the Car Care Council offers valuable tools on its website, including a free personalized schedule and email reminder service. Single copies of the recently-updated 80-page Car Care Guide can be ordered free of charge atwww.carcare.org/car-care-guide.

The Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a free copy of the council’s popular Car Care Guide or for more information, visit www.carcare.org.