Are you finding yourself fueling up your car every couple of days, when before you'd go weeks before needing gas? Have you noticed a new, unsettling noise or find your car lurching? 

While some larger issues need the attention of professional mechanics, there are simple, inexpensive ways to improve your car's performance. Follow these tips to keep your car on the road and running its best:

Take out unnecessary junk
One of the simplest and most effective ways to improve performance and gas mileage is to make your car lighter. This can be accomplished by removing anything you don't need to keep in your car. Even small things like laundry, trash, books, sports equipment and other accumulated items can add up over time.

Check your tire pressure
An underinflated tire creates more surface area, which in turn causes the car to consume more gas. Most fueling stations have free or inexpensive tire pressure check and inflation stations – though before you start adding extra air, check your car's operation manual to see what the ideal pressure should be. 

While you're at it, check tire treads
This will not just improve performance, but also keep you safer in wet or slippery road conditions. Bridgestone tires recommends that you use an American penny to test if you need new tires: Place the penny into the tread groove, with Lincoln's head facing down. If the top of his head isn't visible, your tires are likely still good. If you can see his entire head, it's time to get new tires. 

Test and replace your battery
Car batteries are often not considered until they fail and need to be replaced. To maintain top battery performance and prolong its life span, Discovery.com suggests wrapping it in specially formulated reflective insulation. This will keep it safe from the elements, as extreme heat and cold can reduce performance.

Swap spark plugs
These small pieces have a big impact on performance and are often very inexpensive and simple to replace. For older cars, replace spark plugs on an annual basis. 

Replace air filters
Air filters are what allow air to mix with the fuel in your engine for optimal combustion. Air filters should be replaced roughly every 12,000 miles, according to Edmunds, and are among one of simplest DIY projects you can do to keep your car in tip-top shape.

Check your shocks
Shock absorbers serve a vital purpose in avoiding damage when you drive over potholes and uneven road surface. If your shocks aren't working then you may find your undercarriage being damaged every day. These are harder to replace on your own, but you can at least keep track of how much your car seems to absorb bumps.

Car insurance is a key part of being a safe and responsible driver. Talk to the experts at Fundy Mutual to learn more about our low rates.