It’s sometimes called ecoDriving and it refers to both driving habits and vehicle maintenance that can help you reduce their fuel consumption, save money, and at the same time reduce CO2 emissions. By reducing your personal emissions we can contribute to a healthier environment, now and in the future.
It doesn’t matter what kind of vehicle you drive, you can save by simply changing a few habits.
So Turn off, Tune up, and Drop Emissions! Here’s how:
Drive Smart
Changing your driving behaviour is one of the easiest ways to reduce fuel use. By combining some of the following habits, you could save as much as 35% on your fuel costs:
- Drive Smoothly. Avoiding quick starts and hard stops!
- Slow down and save! Fuel efficiency decreases quickly above 100 km/h!
- Be idle-free. Why waste gas going nowhere?
- Drive to warm up your car.
- Plan your trips. Save time and money!
- Use your air conditioning selectively. It’s your most fuel hungry accessory.
- Get the junk out of your trunk. It costs you 1% for every extra 100 lbs you carry!
- Don’t be a drag! Remove racks and carriers that increase drag and fuel use.
- Consider other options such as walking, cycling, carpooling, or transit. Recent studies show that North Americans may be reaching Peak Car and looking at healthier and more efficient alternatives.
Maintain Smart
If you want your vehicle to perform well and get the best fuel economy, you need to maintain your vehicle. An unmaintained vehicle will increase fuel consumption and increase emissions significantly. Proper maintenance can also head off more serious problems before they become costly repairs.
With today’s sophisticated engines and computer systems, you need to leave the servicing to a trained automotive professional. That doesn’t mean that you should ignore some of the basic maintenance checks that you can do yourself.
- Check your tire pressure. Low tire pressure increases friction and fuel use!
- Check your oil level regularly and have it changed as recommended.
- Check your air filter. Let your engine breath!
- Check the engine coolant (antifreeze). Keep it running at optimum temperature!
- Check for uneven wear on your tires.
- Check your ignition system for cracked or split spark plug wires. Keep it run efficiently!
- Pay attention to your brakes! Squealing or grinding cold cost you more than just fuel!
- If you get a warning message like “Service Engine Soon” respond to it promptly!
Are you considering fuel additives? Find out more!
How about a new vehicle? Are you looking to but a new and used vehicle. Check out these tips that could save you thousands of dollars!
Here are some links that you might want to check out for more information on fuel efficient driving.
