The Government of Canada's Auto$mart program provides valuable information on fuel efficient driving. You can access their videos here.
Fuel Economy Tips
Most drivers want to take steps to reduce the impact of their driving on the environment. Here are ten ways you can reduce fuel usage and save money.
1) Check your tires
Proper tire maintenance increases fuel efficiency by reducing the amount of the tire that makes contact with the road. By reducing friction, you reduce the work your engine has to do to keep you in motion. To ensure that your tires are inflated properly, check your owner's manual. In some vehicles, a sticker may indicate the proper pressure. Otherwise, the rating can be found on the sidewalls. Properly inflated tires can increase your fuel efficiency by 3%.
2) Lighten your load
Any extra weight in your vehicle means that your engine must work harder, burning more fuel to keep you moving. Haul only what is necessary, and remove any items you don't need from your backseat and trunk. Ask yourself "Do I really need this for this trip?" Remember that empty bicycle or ski racks increase weight and wind resistance on your vehicle, which increases your fuel usage. So lighten up, and be on your way to saving gas and cash.
3) Take it easy
Want to increase your fuel economy? You may need to change your driving habits. Speeding, hard braking, and constantly accelerating all burn more fuel. Avoid sudden starts and stops. Remember that slow and steady will still get you where you're going without you having to refill your tank as often. Use brakes sparingly. If you're having to brake in regular traffic to avoid the vehicle you're following, you're following too closely, and you've used fuel unnecessarily to get yourself in that position. Drive at a steady speed appropriate for the weather and road conditions.
4) Start Out With Your Block Heated
Put your block heater on a timer set for one hour before you need to leave. Consider the use of an interior car heater set to start 10 minutes before you get in the vehicle to reduce warm up time. Ensure that all cords are rated for outdoor use and for this application.
5) Reduce Idling
Idle? Schmidle! If you're going to be sitting for more than a minute anywhere, turn your engine off. In the morning, only warm your vehicle long enough to get hot air to clear your interior windows. When you're driving, and you're going to be stopped for more than 10 seconds, consider shutting off your vehicle when it is safe to do so. You will save close to 100% of the fuel you would otherwise be burning while you're sitting there idling, with minimal impact on your vehicle.
6) Combine Trips
Plan your driving to avoid frequent short trips. You will use less fuel if you avoid driving over the same roads repeatedly. And a vehicle that has been warmed up is more fuel efficient than one that is allowed to cool down completely before the next trip. Drive when there isn't as much traffic, and you will save even more fuel!
7) The Best Air is Fresh Air
Air conditioning increases fuel consumption significantly. Using the vehicle's air vents is the most fuel efficient way to move air into the vehicle. If that isn't sufficient to make the interior of your vehicle comfortable, lowering a window or two by an inch or more can cool the vehicle down, although open windows causes drag. If you must use your air conditioning, use it sparingly to save the most fuel.
8) Use the Fuel that is Appropriate For Your Vehicle
Consult your owners manual as to the type of fuel your vehicle should use. Burning a higher octane fuel, if it's not necessary, does not save fuel. Consider using alternative fuels to lower emissions.
9) Maintain Your Vehicle
Be zealous in maintaining your vehicle. If you keep your vehicle properly tuned, check and replace air filters regularly, and use the recommended grade of motor oil, you can save up to 15% of your fuel used. A wheel alignment can also save both fuel and tire wear. Regular maintenance on your engine, and tires in particular, will save you money and keep your vehicle operating longer.
10) Keep a Fuel Use Record
Know how well your vehicle uses fuel by keeping a diary of how many kilometres you are able to drive per litre of fuel. Then, try to get more kilometres per litre. If you see the number of kilometres per litre going down, review these tips, and try to determine the cause. If your vehicle isn't equipped with a fuel consumption gauge, consider installing an aftermarket one that provides you immediate feedback on your fuel consumption.
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