Vehicle Maintenance
A properly maintained vehicle maximizes fuel economy. Poor maintenance can significantly reduce fuel economy. Always maintain your vehicle according to the maintenance messages displayed on the multiinformation display.
For example:
Use the recommended viscosity motor oil, displaying the API Certification Seal.
Maintain proper tire inflation - An underinflated tire increases ‘‘rolling resistance,’’ which reduces fuel economy.
Avoid carrying excess weight in your vehicle - It puts a heavier load on the engine, increasing fuel consumption.
Keep your vehicle clean - In particular, a build-up of snow or mud on your vehicle’s underside adds weight and rolling resistance.
Frequent cleaning helps your fuel economy.
Drive Efficiently
Drive moderately - Rapid acceleration, abrupt cornering, and hard braking increase fuel consumption.
Observe the speed limit - Aerodynamic drag has a big effect on fuel economy at speeds above 45 mph (75 km/h). Reduce your speed and you reduce the drag.
Trailers, car top carriers, roof racks and bike racks are also big contributors to increased drag.
Avoid excessive idling - Idling results in 0 miles per gallon (0 kms per liter).
Minimize the use of the air conditioning system - The A/C puts an extra load on the engine which makes it use more fuel. Use the fresh-air ventilation when possible.
Plan and combine trips - Combine several short trips into one. A warmed-up engine is more fuel efficient than a cold one.