fuel efficiency

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Leesburg, VA., February 25, 2003

Getting the best mileage possible from your vehicle has taken on new urgency. The recent spike in prices at the pump and renewed concerns over oil imports are reminding motorists that conservation should be an every-day event. Here are some easy-to-implement tips from the pros at the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

ASE officials note that its advice falls into two general categories: vehicle maintenance (the "hardware") and sensible driving habits (the "software"). Here's a plan of action from the group that tests and certifies automotive technicians:

• Monitor your tires. Under-inflated tires or poorly aligned wheels waste fuel by forcing the engine to work harder to push the vehicle. When checking air pressure, let the tires cool down first. Out-of-line wheels, as evidenced by uneven tread wear, should be aligned by a professional. Properly maintained tires will last longer, too, saving you money.
  
  
• Pay attention to your engine. Something as simple as a misfiring spark plug can greatly reduce gas mileage. A dirty fuel filter or a clogged fuel injector will further reduce mileage. Uncorrected combustion problems can damage the vehicle's costly catalytic converter.
  
  
• Follow the service schedules listed in your owner's manual and take your vehicle in for an exam if the "service engine" light comes on. Replace all filters and fluids as recommended; have engine performance problems (rough idling, poor acceleration, etc.) corrected at a reputable repair facility. Given today's high-tech engines, it's wise to have this type of work done by auto technicians who are ASE certified in engine performance.
  
  
• Consolidate your daily trips and errands. Some trips may be unnecessary. Also, try to travel when traffic is light so you can avoid stop-and-go conditions. Avoid excessive engine idling. Shut off your vehicle while waiting for friends and family.
  
  
• Observe speed limits. Speeding decreases your miles per gallon. Drive gently. Sudden accelerations guzzle gas. Anticipate traffic patterns ahead and adjust your speed gradually. Use cruise control. (You'll help your brakes and suspension system last longer, too.)
  
  
• Remove unnecessary items from the vehicle. Store only essentials in the trunk. Less weight means better mileage. After family vacations, make sure you remove all vacation items, including that roof-top cargo carrier.
  
  
• Use windows and air conditioning wisely. Your mileage should improve if you keep the windows closed at highway speeds, since air drag is reduced. This is true even with the air conditioning on-assuming that the system is in good working order. If possible, try to avoid using your air conditioner in heavy, stop-and-go traffic such as traffic jams or holiday weekend back-ups.

Besides helping conserve natural resources, these tips will make your car last longer. How much longer? One survey of ASE-certified technicians noted that motorists could extend the life of their vehicles by fifty percent through regular maintenance. Not a bad return on investment.

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) was founded in 1972 as a non-profit, independent organization dedicated to improving the quality of automotive service and repair through the voluntary testing and certification of automotive technicians. ASE-certified technicians wear blue and white ASE shoulder insignia and carry credentials listing their exact area(s) of certification. Their employers often display the blue and white ASE sign.

Visit www.ase.com for more information about car care and about certified technicians.

 

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