Green Driving and Maintenance Tips

One of the more obvious ways to drive green is to switch to an electric power vehicle, whether a hybrid vehicle, a plug-in hybrid vehicle or a full electric vehicle. Or even switching to a smaller vehicle with greater fuel economy can make a world of difference. However, what if you can afford a new (or used) vehicle right now? Or what if you already own one of the vehicles above and want to do more? That is what this post is all about. First, let's look at some green driving tips to help you save fuel, energy and the environment.

• Before you start driving, first try to plan ahead and combine multiple trips into one. Rather than making three separate trips throughout the day, see if you can figure out a way to do all three trips in one go.
• Another thing you can plan ahead of time to avoid rush hour. If you can avoid the stopping and starting involved in normal rush hour traffic, you can save a bunch of gas. This can also lower stress and save time.
• Avoid rapid starts and stops. The average person is not being filmed for The Fast and The Furious, so a nice steady acceleration will do just fine. Also, look ahead at what is coming up. There is no reason to accelerate when a stop is coming ahead. Simply coast until the stop arrives. This will save gas as well as wear and tear on your engine and brakes.
• Stop speeding. Alright, I know that many of us drive over the speed limit every once in a while. However, did you know that vehicles can be up to 10% less efficient when the speed goes from 65 MPH to 75 MPH? So slow it down a bit and save some green. It is considerably safer as well.
• When you are parking, find some shade when it is hot so you can avoid using the air conditioner. You can also use a windshield reflector in the summer to keep the car cool and in the winter to help keep the car warm.
  

There are other driving tips out there, but this is a great start for anyone looking to implement greener driving habits. Next, let us take a look at some basic maintenance that you can do to increase gas mileage and lower emissions.

• Get rid of that junk inside of your trunk (I am sorry... I had to do it!). Seriously though, keeping a large quantity of stuff in the trunk of your car can lower your miles per gallon. If it does not need to be in your car, then take it out.
• Obama took a lot of heat from McCain and the Republicans on this one, but one of the more effective green tips for your car is to keep the tires properly inflated. You can lose 1% of your fuel economy from your tires being only 3 pounds of pressure below the recommended pressure. So check your tires every few weeks and make sure they are inflated properly. This will also improve handling and safety.
• Keep up on your oil changes. There is a lot of back and forth on when exactly you should change your oil, but at least keep it up every 5000 miles. Most oil change places recommend every 3000 miles, but it really depends on a lot of factors. Whatever level you choose, keep it up. You will get better gas mileage and your vehicle will last longer too. Just make sure that the oil is recycled, whether you do it or the shop you use does it.
• Get your regular tune ups. There are many factors that can effect your gas mileage, so make sure your car is running properly and make sure you fuel economy has not dropped.

In addition, the best way to reduce emissions and go green is not to drive at all. If you can walk or ride a bike, then go for it! Or take public transportation, such as a bus, subway, or train. If none of these work for you, try carpooling to work and to events. You will save gas, money and the environment!

-BeeHawk-