Today's cars come equipped with high-tech computer-controlled systems that have vastly improved driving performance. But some vehicle owners are finding this state-of-the-art technology intimidating, and many drivers put off looking under the hood until something goes wrong.

Improvements in electronic ignition and fuel injection systems on newer cars have virtually eliminated the "traditional" tune-up practices of adjusting carburetors, installing points, and setting the timing. However, with regular preventive maintenance, vehicle owners can still improve the performance and fuel efficiency of today's cars.

"Once they've purchased a new car, some people are led to believe that all they have to do is drive it, fill it with gas, and change the oil and then they expect it to last 5 or 10 years until they trade it in," said Roger Kwapich, manager of technical services for Champion Spark Plug Co., a division of Cooper Automotive. Kwapich also hosts "Gasoline Alley," a radio talk show about car care and automobiles.

"Granted, the engines and transmissions being built for today's cars are far superior to those in older models, but only if you maintain them. And that's a big if," Kwapich said. "There's this perception that a car can be like a washing machine. That it will last for years without ever needing maintenance. But that's not how it works in the real world."

One constant in the realm of evolving engine technologies is the spark plug. A critical link in any engine's ignition system, misfiring or worn spark plugs can affect how efficiently a vehicle burns the fuel/air mixture, ultimately affecting engine performance.

Cars in need of new spark plugs and a tune-up could experience measurable fuel economy improvements, Kwapich said. Over the years, Champion estimates millions of motorists have been reducing the miles-per-gallon they are obtaining by neglecting proper care of their cars.

Although tune-up intervals vary from car to car, and some owner's manuals indicate newer models can go almost twice as long as older vehicles between tune-ups, preventive maintenance and checking the car periodically can help assure it continues to deliver peak performance.

"Preventive maintenance today will help your car last until tomorrow," Kwapich said. Since spark plugs are often victims of other problems in an engine, they can reveal valuable "clues" for evaluating engine performance. By examining the condition of the spark plugs, a professional mechanic can confirm a vehicle is running properly, or spot minor problems before they become major malfunctions.

Many other preventive, under- the- hood checks can be accomplished by the car owner at home without a mechanic. No matter how high-tech the engine, just a visual inspection of belts and hoses can reveal cracks, frays, leaks and bulges-- sure signs of impending part failure. And drivers can easily monitor engine fluid levels by periodically checking to be sure oil, radiator, battery, power steering, brake and automatic transmission fluids are filled to recommended levels.

Regularly rotating the tires can also pay off big, not just in better handling and energy efficiency, but in safety, too.

"Lots of people overlook the need for maintenance because they still perceive their car as brand new," Kwapich explained. "For instance, people often buy new cars right before they leave on vacation, then forget that those accumulated miles may warrant an oil change or tire rotation when their vehicle is only a couple of months old."

Today's high-tech automobiles can accumulate a lot of mileage with very little evidence of wear and tear, making it easy for motorists to avoid looking under the hood while their vehicle is running well. But preventive maintenance can be a valuable investment, increasing fuel efficiency and saving the expense of emergency repair service, towing charges and even the inconvenience of a breakdown.

"If car owners put a few dollars into maintenance, they are almost certain to get better overall performance and vehicle longevity," Kwapich said.