On a monthly basis if you check a few simple things you can prevent gas robbing problems. In addition, as an added benefit, you might be preventing future costly repair bills.

More importantly, by performing this monthly check, you will keep your car is as safe as it can be. You can identify and correct problems that if left alone could lead to critical car failures that could end up causing accidents and injury.

Generally it is suggested that most maintenance should be left to the professionals. But once each month you can do the following to identify problems that can cost you money and gas down the road: (excuse the pun!)

1. Check tire pressure and look for signs of uneven wear or embedded objects that can cause air leaks. In winter, check tire pressure whenever there is a sharp change in temperature.

2. Check around the car and under the engine for fluid leaks. You can often identify the type of fluid that is leaking by its color. Oil is black, coolant is a bright greenish yellow, automatic transmission fluid is pink, and power steering and brake fluids are clear, with a slight brown tinge. All of these fluids are oily to the touch.

3. After determining there are no leaks, check the level of your fluids. Check all of the fluid levels including the transmission fluid the engine oil, the power steering fluid and the engine coolant. Make sure you bring any fluids that are low to their proper level by adding the appropriate fluid. To make sure you are doing this properly Check the owner's manual.

4. Check under the hood for cracked or leaking radiator hoses and cracked or split spark plug wires. Also check for loose clamps and check the battery for any visible signs of corrosion.

5. Check for problems with the brakes. On a straight, flat and traffic-free stretch of road, rest your hands lightly on the steering wheel and apply the brakes gradually. If the vehicle swerves to one side, one of the brake linings may be worn more than the other, or the brakes may need adjustment.

6. You can use the same type of test to check your wheel alignment. Again find a straight, flat and traffic-free road. Put your hands very lightly on the steering wheel and drive forward at a constant speed. This should be done at a relatively slow speed. If the car pulls to one side or the other it is a good indicator that your wheels may be out of alignment.

Following these few basic procedures monthly will keep your car running at its peak performance. If your car is running at its peak, it will save you fuel, save you dollars and will help to ensure your safety.