Each fall, the leaves burst into color, the air gets crisper, and motorists hit the road for vacations, scenic color tours, the annual cider mill jaunt, and tailgate parties galore.

Whether they're picking apples or pumpkins, record fuel prices are making motorists more concerned than ever about saving money at the pump.

Relief is here: It's a little-known fact that keeping up with your regular vehicle maintenance schedule can help improve fuel economy. Service items such as clogged fuel injectors and air filters, dirty spark plugs and underinflated tires make engines and other vehicle components work harder and consume more gas.

During October Car Care Month, GM Goodwrench offers a number of tips to help improve fuel economy and keep vehicles in tip-top shape.

Travel Tips

Be a Planner: If you're taking a fall roadtrip, map your route beforehand to maximize highway efficiency.

Control Clutter: Avoid packing unnecessary items - according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) an extra 100 pounds in the trunk can reduce fuel economy by up to 2 percent, or about 6 cents per gallon.

Take a Cruise: Cruise control helps you maintain a constant speed on the highway and can help save gas.

Avoid Idling: Idling is a prime fuel waster. When tailgating, bundle up instead of using the vehicle's heater to keep warm, and bring a boom-box to listen to the pre-game instead of using the audio system.

Drive Smart: Hard starts, stops and other forms of aggressive driving can reduce fuel economy an astonishing 33 percent on the highway and 5 percent on city streets, according to the EPA. Motorists can save between 15 cents and $1.01 per gallon of gas by driving sensibly.

Relax: Contrary to popular belief, the faster you go, the more fuel you use. The EPA estimates that every five miles you drive over 60 mph equals an extra 21 cents per gallon of gas. So plan ahead and allow yourself a little extra time to travel. And, when possible, drive your household's most fuel-efficient vehicle on your fall trip.

GM Goodwrench Maintenance Tips

For extra security on the road, GM Goodwrench encourages you to bring your vehicle to your local GM Goodwrench dealership for an inspection during October Car Care Month. The inspections help identify service items that can help vehicles run better, last longer, retain value and provide optimal safety and security. GM Goodwrench recommends the following inspections:

Batteries: Weak batteries can lead to breakdowns - possibly at the worst time and place.

Brakes: An expert inspection can determine whether brakes are functioning properly with full braking capability.

Windshield wipers: Old or worn windshield wipers can lead to poor visibility.

Headlamps: Properly aimed headlamps are a must for optimal visibility.

Oil: Change the oil and filter at recommended intervals to minimize engine wear and reduce the possibility of internal damage. Many 2004 and newer GM vehicles follow the Simplified Maintenance schedule which can save both oil and money. Check your vehicle's Owner's Manual for recommended intervals.

Fluid levels: Improper fluid levels - including coolant, oil, power steering, transmission, brake fluid and even washer solvent - can negatively affect vehicle performance, durability and safety.

Belts and hoses: A broken belt or ruptured hose can cause costly engine damage and travel delays.

What is a Multi-Point Inspection?

GM Goodwrench technicians perform comprehensive vehicle inspections to help customers keep their vehicles operating at optimal performance. In addition to checking the brakes, tires, fluids and battery, GM Goodwrench dealerships offer the following inspection services:

   * Exhaust system
   * Engine air cleaner filter
   * Transmission, drive shaft and u-joints
   * Suspension and steering components
   * Radiator, heater and air-conditioning hoses
   * Interior lights, exterior lamps, brake lamps, turn signals and hazard warning lights