Performance Tips

Practice Good Car Maintenance

Poorly maintained vehicles are less efficient and use more fuel. Here are some car care tips to help you achieve better fuel economy:

• Remove unnecessary items from the vehicle. An extra 100 pounds can reduce fuel economy up to 1 percent. Note that cargo weight affects the fuel mileage of smaller vehicles more than larger ones.
• Perform regular car maintenance at the intervals recommended by the vehicle manufacturer in the owner's manual, or as indicated by the in-car maintenance reminder system.
• When its time for an oil change, make sure to use the proper type. Most newer cars require low-viscosity, energy-conserving, semi- or full-synthetic oils.
• Buy quality fuel. Use the gasoline grade (regular, mid-grade, or premium) recommended by the car's manufacturer, and choose Top Tier™ brands to prevent fuel system and engine deposits that reduce efficiency.
• Check the tires for proper inflation at least once a month. Under-inflated tires have increased rolling resistance that reduces fuel economy. They can also overheat and blowout.
• Make sure the engine air filter is clean. A dirty filter can reduce fuel economy on older carbureted cars, although it only affects maximum power output on modern fuel-injected engines.
• Visit our service centre as soon as possible if the "check engine" light comes on. This light indicates a fault that can increase exhaust emissions and decrease fuel economy.
• Try to avoid the use of rooftop luggage carriers. Items transported on top of the car significantly increase aerodynamic drag, which reduces fuel economy.
• Park in the shade. During the summer, heat built-up from the sun will require increased use of the air conditioning system.
• Use a block heater. In cold winter climates, this helps the engine reach operating temperature faster, where it is most fuel efficient.
• Turn off the air conditioning and roll down the windows to save fuel. This works even at highway speeds, though the added heat and noise can be uncomfortable and increase driver fatigue.
• Regularly track your car's fuel economy. A sudden drop in mileage may indicate a need for service.