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Use octane called for by the
manufacturer.
Check your vehicle owner’s manual.
If your vehicle does not require premium or mid-grade fuel, purchase less
expensive, regular unleaded gas. Motorists
can save hundreds of dollars over time by not springing for extra octane.
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Keep tires inflated at the
proper pressure.
Under inflated tires are a safety hazard and can cut fuel economy
by as much as 2 percent per pound of pressure below the recommended level.
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Moving components should be
properly lubricated and ignition
and emission systems operating properly.
This will help your vehicle achieve maximum fuel economy and extend its
useful life.
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Don’t race a cold engine to
warm it up.
Avoid extended idling to warm up the engine.
Start driving as soon as the engine is started but avoid rapid
acceleration.
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Spark plugs must be in good
condition.
Some will last for 100,000 miles, but many need to be replaced more
often.
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Check the air filter twice a year, or more often in dusty
conditions. A dirty air filter increases
fuel consumption and can cause poor performance.
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Take care of car-care
“incidentals” that can affect fuel use.
For example, a defective radiator thermostat can waste gas by
extending the engine’s warm-up time or decreasing the engine’s operating
temperature. A stuck brake caliper can
create drag, which also wastes fuel.
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Make sure a replacement gas
cap is the right one for your car.
A poorly fitting cap can cause engine problems.
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Remove
snow tires during good weather seasons; traveling on
deep tire tread really robs fuel!
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Change
your oil when you tune-up your car, and use the weight
recommended by the manufacturer. Oil that
is too heavy forces the engine to waste fuel in overcoming the oil’s
resistance, and overly-thin oil does not adequately protect your engine.
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Wheels need to be properly
aligned to prevent drag and
shortened tire life. |
