So, you have made the wiser choice of picking a fuel efficient new(er) car. This is just the first step. Now comes the real battle – keeping it is good shape and benefiting from the value that your choice and new vehicle has to offer!
Even for ensuring smooth, optimal operation and new car fuel economy at its best, consider keeping your car in mint condition. Improve your new car fuel economy and performance by as much as 4% simply by having the engine fine-tuned.
Avoid breakdown and deterioration of parts like the oxygen sensor, clogged air filters, dirty oil, contaminants and dirty particles, even under-inflated tires.
Warming up your car will in effect not make it more fuel efficient, it will end up wasting fuel and polluting the atmosphere, consider using a block heater and combining errands in one trip, knowing where you are headed and getting a licensed mechanic to work on your car – someone who knows its ins and outs and can help you get the most of your new car fuel economy investment.
Tips abound on how to make the most of new car fuel economy. Here are some from online sources collected here for your convenience:
Avoid long or any periods of sustained idling or heating up of your vehicle when not required. Even in extreme weather there are other options to consider, like block heaters and turning off all accessories that demand energy and fuel from cold start
Do not hesitate to roll up or close your windows when driving, to cut down on drag, noise and additional requirements for energy
Reduce the weight that you carry or travel with you (bike racks, roof and sports racks, tow bars and other)
Cut down on the use of accessories and A/C as they all require additional energy
Drive consistently and stick to the speed limit
Slow down and use the right recommended fuel and products for the optimal functioning of your vehicle
Service regularly
Keep your tires inflated properly and checked regularly.
As a new car fuel economy conscious driver, pay close attention to:
Making smarter decisions and choices for both cars and driving
Consider and adapt your own personal driving techniques, styles and habits making fuel economy a top priority
Avoid frequent, quick acceleration, lane changes, sudden braking, idling, quick-stops high-demand for power, like speeding or racing, high-speed cornering etc.
Stay abreast of newer technologies (hybrid vehicles)
Pride of ownership of your new vehicle can easily translate into saved dollars and added miles per gallon!
Scheduled service, tune-ups, replacement, quality parts, (like spark-plugs, air-filters, valves, brakes, tires, powerplants) all contribute to the safetly, longevity and fuel economy of your vehicle in the short, medium and long-term.
