Here's some information your car or truck will thank you for with improved performance and mileage. You can also consult your owner's manual for even more helpful information.

Tire Pressure
To get a true tire pressure reading, check the tires when they're cold -- when your vehicle has been idle for at least three hours.

How much Pressure?
A sticker on the underside of the trunk lid or on the edge of the driver's door will tell you the proper tire inflation for your car or truck.

Tire Inflation
Over-inflated tires wear out more quickly in the center of the tread. Under-inflated tires wear out more quickly at the outer edge of the tread. With under-inflated tires, rolling resistance is increased causing increased fuel consumption.

Oil Level
You'll get a more accurate dipstick reading if you wait a few minutes after turning off the engine. This gives the oil in the crankcase time to drain back into the oil pan. Also, make sure the vehicle is on level ground.

Fabric/Carpet Stains
Rub stubborn stains with a damp cloth moistened with club soda or glass cleaner. Also try denture cleaner dissolved according to directions on the package. It's a good idea to do a spot test to ensure that the color of the fabric or carpet doesn't come out.

Hands on the Wheel
Always drive with both hands on the wheel. The best place for your hands are at the nine and three o'clock positions. This gives you greater steering control in all situations.

Quick Maneuvering
If you need to turn the wheel suddenly to avoid hitting an object in the path of your vehicle, look in the direction you're turning. If you look at the object, you're more likely to hit it.

Lights On, Please!
In rainy or snowy weather, turn on your headlamps and tail lamps. Even if your visibility is good, other drivers will have a better view of your vehicle in their rearview mirrors.

Driving Out of a Skid, Backward and Forward
The best way to drive out of a skid is to take your foot off the accelerator, steer in the direction you want to go and constantly check for an escape route.

Overweight
Driving with a lot of excess weight in the trunk of your car or truck bed can decrease gas mileage. Remove the things that accumulate in these areas.

Snow on the Roof
If you live in a snow belt, don't let snow pile up on top of your car or truck. Peaks of snow increase drag and decrease gas mileage. Also, don't let snow pile up in the bed of your pickup. It can cause an obstruction of your view and the view of other drivers.

Wash Wax Concentrate
Use GM Wash Wax concentrate (part number 12378401) as directed for a clean, shiny finish. It rinses off quickly and leaves no residue.

Figuring Out Your Mileage
Start out with a full tank of gas. Note the mileage on your odometer, or zero out your trip odometer. The next time you fill up, note how many gallons of gas you've added and how many miles you've driven. Dividing the number of miles driven by the number of gallons added gives you your vehicle's MPG.

Engine Overheating
If your engine overheats in summer traffic, turn off the air conditioner and turn on the heater and fan to the highest level. It may be uncomfortable, but it will help cool down the engine.