Smart driving habits make owning a vehicle a little easier on your wallet and the environment. While vehicles have become increasingly efficient over the past few years, it’s important to remember that technology is only a part of efficiency … we also need to drive smart!
Smart driving habits everyone can learn
Smart driving includes techniques that maximize the fuel efficiency in our vehicles by improving our driving habits and vehicle maintenance. Here are 5 smart driving habits that will help both your wallet and the environment!
#1: Slow down!
That’s easy, right? Speeding wastes gasoline and puts extra wear and tear on your vehicle. It’s also smart to use cruise control on the highways and avoid idling when stopped for a long period of time.
#2: Practice good tire maintenance.
Underinflated tires increase tire resistance and decrease the vehicle’s fuel economy. They also make vehicle handling more difficult and increase the chance of crashes due to flat tires and blowouts. Tire safety is one big reason why newer vehicles have a monitoring system to alert drivers when a tire is inflated to 25% below the manufacturers’ recommendations.
#3: Schedule routine vehicle maintenance.
Keeping your car tuned can drastically improve gas mileage. Replace filters and fluids as recommended in your owner’s manual. Regular preventative maintenance, like a routine oil change, can keep things running smoothly and help identify any engine performance problems that need to be corrected. A well-tuned engine pollutes less and can keep costly repairs at bay.
#4: Avoid extra weight.
No, we’re not referring to your New Year’s resolution to lose a few pounds! We’re talking about roof racks and cargo carriers. Extra weight means decreased aerodynamics and extra fuel being used. After vacation, take off the roof rack and leave the extra stuff at home!
#5: Don’t pollute.
This one is for the environment, but really, we all benefit when the environment is protected. If you are doing your own auto repairs, properly dispose of used motor oil, antifreeze/coolant, and old batteries.
Smart driving habits make a difference!
We hope you notice a difference when following these smart driving habits. When it comes to auto service, the experts at NARPRO are here to help! NARPRO helps car owners find skilled and honest auto repair shops. And, we only recommend independent, family-owned, full-service auto repair shops that have passed 26 rigorous tests. Find a recommended shop near your work or home and experience the difference!
