A little maintenance goes a long way. There are simple things that you can do to extend the life of your car and save money on gas, too.

These days, longevity is the name of the game. If you have a car loan, chances are you're in it for the long haul and would like your car to run as long as possible to get the best value for your money. Properly driving your car can extend its life; performing simple maintenance on a regular basis not only does the same, but can also improve your car's gas mileage, and save you money at the pump.

Driving tips

The way that you drive can have a huge impact on the life of your car. When you handle your car properly, you can save thousands of dollars in repairs. Here are some tips that could help:

• When you turn on the ignition, make sure that all of the electronics, including the heating and cooling systems, are turned off. If they're not, it puts stress on the engine, and makes it work extra hard.
• Don't overturn your steering wheel. The steering pump typically lasts the lifetime of the car, but routinely overturning it can shorten its life. Replacement of this part can cost up to $500.
• Don't wait until you're running on fumes before you get gas. When you drive with your tank less than one quarter full, you're inviting dirt that collects at the bottom of the tank to mix with the fuel. Ultimately, you'll need to replace your fuel injector.

Tried and true maintenance

Whether your present car is your first or your tenth, you probably know that it's important to change the oil, keep the proper amount of air in the tires, and have your wheels occasionally rotated. But you may not be aware that being vigilant about doing these things can also save you money on gas. Here are a few ways to prolong the life of the car and improve its gas mileage.

• Change the oil and filter every 3,000 miles, even if your owner's manual doesn't call for it.
• Tune-ups save money. If your car isn't maintained regularly, it can cost you up to 30 percent more in gas.
• Replace or clean your air filter each month. Driving your car with a dirty filter makes it run less efficiently and reduces gas mileage by up to 10 percent.
• Make sure that your tires have optimum tire pressure. You'll need new tires sooner if they're over- or under-inflated. Plus, if they're under-inflated, it can have a negative impact on your gas mileage.

Making sure that your car runs smoothly and efficiently for years after the final payment on your car loan means that you're getting the most value for your money. Add in the benefit of fewer stops at the gas pump, and you'll be glad you took the time and expense to maintain your car.