Greg Williamson

But the days of simply replacing the plugs and points and setting the timing are over, said Greg Williamson, general manager of the Firestone Tire and Service Center in Kinston.

" Tune-up doesn't have the same meaning it did 25 years ago," he said.

Mechanics say today's tune-ups can be complex affairs, with computer diagnostics and high-priced emissions-control equipment to look after.

Full-service tune-ups and other repairs such as the replacement of oxygen sensors can cost upwards of $250 to $300, mechanics say.

But there are also some low-cost fixes you can try, such as replacing your car's air filter.

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Williamson said it's important not to forget your car's tires.Properly inflating your tires and ensuring they have good tread can improve gas mileage, he said.

Driving sensibly is also a good way to increase your car's gas mileage.Automobile experts say you can improve your gas mileage about 15 percent by driving at 55 mph rather than 65 mph.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has other tips drivers can use to save gas.

They include: