(NAPSI)—Whether changing the oil, replacing the wiper blades or checking the tires, finding the time to perform simple preventative vehicle maintenance is money in the bank.

According to research conducted by automotive market research firm IMR Inc., one out of three consumers who put off routine vehicle maintenance do so because they cannot find a convenient time. In addition, millennials and those who own older vehicles are more likely to delay routine maintenance.

Expert Advice

“There is an old adage that if you take care of your car, your car will take care of you,” said Rich White, executive director of the nonprofit Car Care Council. “Making time to perform routine auto care not only ensures a safer, more dependable vehicle, but car owners can preserve the trade-in value and save money by addressing small issues before they become more complicated, expensive repairs.”

What You Should Do

The most common maintenance procedures to keep a car operating safely and reliably while maintaining its long-term value involve checking the oil, filters and fluids, the belts and hoses, brakes, tires and air-conditioning. An annual tune-up and wheel alignment are also good ideas.

Where To Get Help

To make it easier for car owners to remember to include auto care in their busy schedules, the Car Care Council offers a free custom service schedule and e-mail reminder service. This simple-to-use online resource can be personalized to help make auto care more convenient and economical.

In addition, the council’s popular “Car Care Guide” for motorists is available at no charge, electronically or by printed copy, in English and Spanish. The guide covers major services, component groups within the vehicle, service interval recommendations and much more.

The 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.

Learn More

For the latest car care news, visit the council’s online media room at http://media.carcare.org. To order a free copy of the popular “Car Care Guide,” visit the consumer education website at www.carcare.org.

“Routine auto care ensures a safer, more dependable vehicle, car owners can preserve trade-in value and save money addressing small issues before they become expensive repairs,” says Rich White, executive director of the nonprofit Car Care Council. http://bit.ly/2IgZYzq”