H. N. Funkhouser and Havoline Car Care Tips

Protecting the investment in your car requires more than just using quality products like Havoline motor oils, but you also have to stay on top of regular maintenance. So if you want to help protect engine performance and the investment in your vehicle, as well as maximizing fuel economy to help protect the environment, then follow these handy tips courtesy of Havoline.

Contact our sales team at sales@hnfunkhouser.com to inquire about our product lines.

Beyond using Havoline® with Deposit Shield™ for regular changes and top-ups, there’s a lot you can do to maximize the life of your car:

Basic Tips

• Keep your tires inflated at the correct pressure. Under inflation causes tire wear and wastes fuel.
• Don’t carry unneeded weight in your vehicle. Excess weight puts a heavier load on the engine, causing greater fuel consumption.
• Accelerate slowly and smoothly. Avoid jackrabbit starts. Get into a higher gear as quickly as possible.
• Avoid long engine idling. If you have to wait for a long period of time, it is better to turn off the engine and start again later.
• Avoid engine lag or over-revving. Use a gear position suitable for the type of road you’re traveling.
• Avoid stop-and-go driving. Stop-and-go driving wastes fuel.
• Don’t rest your foot on the clutch or brake pedal. This causes needless wear, overheating and poor fuel economy.
• Keep all wheels in proper alignment. Improper alignment not only causes faster tire wear but also puts an extra load on the engine.
• Keep your vehicle tuned up and in top shape.
• Getting better mileage is actually simple. Just take it easy while driving. It will also make your vehicle last longer.
• Take to the shade rather than keep the air conditioner running.
• It’s a good idea to do a safety check before starting out on a trip. A visit to your mechanic can help ensure safe and pleasant driving.

Winter Tips

• Have cooling system checked for condition and level of protection.
• Have tires checked for proper inflation and adequate tread depth.
• Check condition and operation of wiper blades and fill the washer reservoir.
• Check the heater and defroster for proper operation.
• Have the battery, alternator, and starter checked for condition and operation.
• Make sure the exhaust system is tight and free of any leaks.
• Keep your fuel tank filled to prevent moisture build-up.
• Check the engine oil for proper level and to see if it is in need of a change.
• Check to see that your engine starts easily and runs smoothly.
• Make sure you carry your mobile phone if you have one.
• Keep a scraper or de-icier close at hand for those icy mornings.
• Make sure you can see out of all windows before starting off.
• Make sure you have a blanket to keep warm and a pair of boots in the car in case you need to walk anywhere if you break down.
• Keep a flashlight in the car.
• Check your oil and water regularly.
• Carry a first-aid kit for emergencies.
• Plan your route.
• Check the weather reports before you set out.

Fuel Saving Tips

• After starting the engine, it is best to drive off immediately. Idling causes pollution and excessive fuel consumption.
• Depress the accelerator gently to drive away and change to a higher gear in time.
• Do not approach traffic lights at full speed. If it is clear that you will have to stop, begin slowing down well in advance.
• Driving at high speed (over 50 mph and especially over 60 mph) uses more fuel and causes more pollution.
• Avoid drag. Where possible keep all windows closed and ensure that the doors, hood, and trunk are securely fastened.
• Maintain a sufficient distance between your car and the vehicle ahead. This way there is less need to react suddenly, and you can brake and accelerate more smoothly.
• On curves, reduce speed in time and accelerate smoothly when you are halfway through a turn. Late, heavy braking before a curve followed by rapid acceleration leads to excessive fuel consumption.
• If you watch the road ahead and anticipate any likely problems, your driving style will become smoother and better controlled.
• Tires in good condition and at the right pressure improve both safety and fuel consumption. Be sure to check your tires regularly.
• Ensure your car is properly and regularly maintained. Poor engine lubrication, wheel alignment and poorly adjusted brakes can increase fuel consumption.