Change your oil and oil filter every 3,000 miles or four times a year.

Replace air and fuel filters as recommended.

Get plenty of windshield washer solvent – we have a tendency to use a lot of this in winter, so your fluids may be low.

Tires should be rotated every 5000 miles or so.

Check spare tire to make sure it’s inflated properly. Also, make sure you have a jack along with it!

Transmission troubles equal money troubles equal emotional troubles! Have your transmission serviced periodically, and prevent big-time repair bills.

If you notice that your brakes are less efficient, get them checked out right away.

Have your battery checked periodically to see how much life it has left!

Inspect all lights and bulbs to make sure they’re working.

Carry a first aid kit, flares, jumper cables, a flashlight, and a cell phone.

There you go – a simple list to keep your car in great running shape. Remember, your car needs to be maintained and checked over even in summer.

Taking care of your car takes only a few minutes each month, and pays you big dividends for life of your vehicle!

Step 6: Do not release insurers too early Do not relieve your insurance company of its responsibility until damages are settled to your satisfaction. For example, have your insurance company handle claim if other party's insurance company questions its policyholder's negligence or offers an unacceptable settlement.

Step 7: Consider these settlement factors . Bodily injuries: You may be entitled to a monetary settlement for injuries caused by another at fault (liable) party. It can take several days for some injuries to become apparent. . Damages: The insurance company is responsible to pay for reasonable cost of repairs to your vehicle. An insurance adjuster will assess damage. Usually, insurance companies and auto body shops negotiate disagreements about what should be repaired. If you disagree with their conclusions, you have right to obtain another appraisal at any auto body shop. . Appraisal clause: Most auto insurance policies include an appraisal clause, which can be used to help settle disputes about physical damage claims between you and your insurance company. (The appraisal clause does not apply for claims you file with other party's insurance company.) If you cannot reach an agreement with your company, you or your insurer can initiate appraisal clause. Your appraiser and your insurer's appraiser then select an independent umpire to try to resolve dispute. Check your policy or ask your agent or insurance company for more information about appraisal clause.

And that is it. While filing a claim is certainly no fun, following these seven steps will make process almost as easy as getting free quotes and purchasing your car insurance at http://www.carinsurance.com.

Visit http://www.carinsurance.com For Your Free Quote

Jon Register is a representative of CarInsurance.com. You can visit CarInsurance.com at http://www.carinsurance.com or contact them at 1-877-327-8728.