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NEW CAR PRICES AND RESEARCH
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12 Easy Tips to Improve Fuel Economy, page 2 of 2 by Staff
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Fill'r up, not over:
When you buy gas, stop when the pump shuts off automatically (unless you
know that it did so
prematurely).
Don't
be idle: Modern,
fuel-injected engines do not need to
be warmed up, and unnecessary idling
wastes fuel. Just take it easy for
the first couple miles.
Stay in
tune: Keep
your car in top mechanical shape. It
will run better, last longer, and
return better fuel economy. Follow
the manufacturer's maintenance
schedule. You can check the air
filter by holding it up to a bright
light. If it looks clogged or
obviously dirty, replace it. Air
filters are very inexpensive at
national chain stores such as
K-Mart, Wal-Mart, and Target. Keep
tabs on the fuel filter, also.
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The Civic Hybrid (manual transmission) gets 46/51 mpg, with a93 horsepower power plant.
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Buy from busy
gas stations:
Whenever
possible, buy your gas at a high
volume station. Since their tanks
are refilled often, you're less
likely to get gas with water, rust
or other impurities. Bad gas hurts
mileage figures. Busy stations are
more likely to have frequent pump
accuracy inspections so you get what
you paid for.
Plan local trips and errands
Plan errands for maximum efficiency.
This technique will also save you a
lot of time.
Drive straight:
Be sure that your front suspension
is properly aligned. Poor alignment
increases tire friction, causes
premature tire wear, and requires
extra gas to move the vehicle.
Cruise
control:
On long trips where traffic permits,
use your cruise control. A constant
speed is more efficient than what
you can maintain manually.
Low
grades:
Don't waste money on premium gas if
your car doesn't require it. Consult
your owner's manual for the factory
octane recommendations. Use the
lowest octane gas that doesn't cause
excessive engine knocking.
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Source: ABT
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A D V E R T I S E M E N T
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