Driving for Better Fuel
Economy
Driving habits can affect fuel
mileage. Here are some driving
tips to get the best fuel economy
possible.
• Avoid fast starts and accelerate
smoothly.
• Brake gradually and avoid abrupt
stops.
• Avoid idling the engine for long
periods of time.
• When road and weather
conditions are appropriate, use
cruise control, if equipped.
• Always follow posted speed limits
or drive more slowly when
conditions require.
• Keep vehicle tires properly
inflated.
• Combine several trips into a
single trip.
• Replace the vehicle’s tires with
the same TPC Spec number
molded into the tire’s sidewall
near the size.
• Follow recommended scheduled
maintenance.
Defensive Driving
Defensive driving means “always
expect the unexpected.” The first
step in driving defensively is to wear
your safety belt — See Safety Belts:
They Are for Everyone on page 1-10.
{ CAUTION
Assume that other road users
(pedestrians, bicyclists, and other
drivers) are going to be careless
and make mistakes. Anticipate
what they might do and be ready.
In addition:
• Allow enough following
distance between you and
the driver in front of you.
• Focus on the task of driving.
Driver distraction can cause
collisions resulting in injury or
possible death. These simple
defensive driving techniques could
save your life.
Driving Your Vehicle 4-3