Periodic maintenance on your car will save you tremendous hassle in the long run. Your vehicle should last longer and command a higher resale price, too! If you get your car serviced according to the dealer's schedule, when you trade it in you may get far more than you expected thanks to those well-maintained mechanics.

It isn't bedtime reading, but the owner's manual can be your best friend - assuming you read it.  At least take a look-through periodically. How about while you're waiting to get your oil changed?

• Follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedules. This could save you a major breakdown.
• Have the air conditioning system looked over by a qualified technician. A check up here can save you a huge bill later.
• The greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. Prevent this problem by making sure the cooling system is flushed and refilled as recommended.
• Have your car's belts, clamps, and hoses checked by a technician. This only takes a few minutes and is usually inexpensive.
• Change your oil and oil filter every 6,000 miles or twice a year.
• Replace air and fuel filters as recommended.
• Get plenty of windshield washer solvent - we have a tendency to use a lot of this in the winter, so your fluids may be low.
• Tires should be rotated every 5000 miles or so.
• If you notice that your brakes are less efficient, get them checked out right away.
• Have your battery checked periodically to see how much life it has left!
• Inspect all lights and bulbs to make sure they're working.
• Check the spare tire to make sure it's inflated properly. Also, make sure you have a jack along with it!
• Transmission troubles equal money troubles equal emotional troubles! Have your transmission serviced periodically, and prevent big-time repair bills.
• Carry a first aid kit, flares, jumper cables, a flashlight, and a cell phone.

Taking care of your car takes only a few minutes each month, and pays you big dividends for the life of your vehicle.   But just in case the unexpected does happen and your car breaks down, consider taking out breakdown cover which is relatively small sum compared to the cost of an emergency tow-truck.There you go - a simple list to keep your car in great running shape, Happy Motoring!