Green Driving Tips

8 Tips for Green Driving Avoid quick starts & aggressive driving Plan your trips Reduce engine load Slow down Share a car Recycle & buy recycled Maintain your car Make a fuel efficient choice

Avoid quick starts and aggressive driving Avoid “jack- rabbit” starts. A smooth, steady speed saves gasoline and reduces wear and tear on your engine, tires, transmission and breaks. Keep a safe distance between yourself and the vehicle in front of your so you aren’t constantly tapping your breaks.

Plan your trips Your engine runs more efficiently once it’s warmed up, so avoid making multiple short trips. Map out your errands to avoid backtracking. Park where you can visit as many of the stores on your list as possible without having to get back in your car and drive for only a short distance. Call ahead to make sure what you need is in stock before making the trip or shop on-line when possible.

Reduce Engine Load Don’t use your car as a storage facility and carry around only what you actually need. Remove roof racks, tow-hook carriers, and other items from your vehicle that cause wind resistance. Instead of running the air conditioner, crack open a window or use the air vent.

Slow down Utilize overdrive or cruise control (when safe and appropriate to do so); by helping maintain a constant speed you reduce pollution and increase fuel efficiency. Fuel economy decreases about 1% for each mph over 55. Driving 65mph vs. 75 mph, for example, increases fuel economy by about 10%.

Share a car Car pool when possible to work, school, or other events. If your family has more than one car, consider selling one. This will encourage “greener” habits such as walking or biking. The occasional cost of calling a cab or renting a vehicle will more than offset what you have been spending on car payments, insurance, fuel and maintenance.

Recycle and buy recycled Used fluids, worn-out parts, antifreeze, batteries and tires can all be recycled. Your mechanic or local recycling center can help you figure out what can be recycled. Even more important is buying recycled. Ask your retailer for re-refined motor oil and remanufactured parts. When it is time to get a new car, consider donating your old one to a vocational school for students. This may also entitle you to a tax deduction.

Maintain your car Visit your mechanic annually for an emissions check and tune-up, especially if your car seems to be “running rough”. Check tire pressure monthly and keep them properly inflated. Look for this symbol at local dealerships.

Make a fuel efficient choice Select new technologies such as gas- electric hybrids like the Honda Insight or the Toyota Prius. Select conventional engines which get 40 mpg (available from Chevrolet, Honda, Suzuki & Toyota). With either choice, you will pollute less and save money in fuel costs.