Modern cars are sold with very long service intervals compared to even a decade ago.
These intervals are, however, drawn up with ideal conditions in mind, like New Zealand, where dust is unheard of and short distances in low ambient temperatures are the norm.
Africans who often drive long distances in hot, dusty conditions will prolong their engine life and get extra kilometres out of every litre by giving their car a lube service at least every ten thousand kilometres.
Here are four steps to get extra kilometres from your tank:
Oil is the life blood of your engine. Keeping it fresh is expensive yes, but it will ensure smooth running and lower consumption.
The fuel, oil and air filters are the liver, kidneys and lungs of your car. Keep them clean. Blow dust out of the air filter whenever you put in fuel. Change the fuel and oil filter when you change the oil.
Keep the wheels pumped harder rather than softer. Monitor tyre pressure before driving. When buying new tyres, get low resistance rolling tyres. They help to reduce consumption, but note, they take longer to stop.
The attitude of the nut holding the steering wheel is the main cause of high fuel bills. Change the driver's attitude to enjoy the journey, instead of racing to get to the destination.