Global warming is one of the biggest challenges of our times. Climate change has destroyed several fragile ecosystems around the world. It is a pervasive and growing threat to biodiversity. Vehicles are a significant contributor to pollution. Their greenhouse emissions account for about 20% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions.
You can contribute to sustainability by ensuring your car emits fewer greenhouse gases. An eco-friendly vehicle is good for both the environment and your pocket. With an eco-friendly car, you avoid penalties for excess emissions.
GreenTech Automotive has comprised a list of ways to get the most out of your Follow these tips to make your car more eco-friendly.
Maintain Your Tires
Under-inflated tires require more energy to start moving and to maintain speed. Cars with under-inflated tires release as much as 1.5 extra tons of greenhouse gases into the environment annually. Under-inflated tires can affect your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. By how much, you ask? For every 1-psi drop in tire pressure, gas mileage decreases by 0.4%.
Also, underinflated tires can affect vehicle handling and lead to accidents. A study found that around 260,000 vehicle accidents are caused by low tire pressure annually.
Make it a point to check your tire pressure every month. Make sure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure. Inspect your tires regularly for premature and uneven wear and tear. Do not spin them excessively. Have a professional balance them every 5,000-7,500 miles.
Inculcate Good Driving Habits
Hard braking and acceleration can decrease your car’s fuel efficiency by as much as 30 percent. Maintain a steady speed and a safe distance between your car and the car in front of you while driving. To avoid unnecessary idling, switch off the engine when the traffic light is red.
Accelerate smoothly and steadily. Anticipate the way traffic moves. Plan your maneuvers to avoid unnecessary braking and acceleration. Do not overload your car.
Limit AC Usage
Cranking up your car's AC regularly can decrease fuel efficiency by more than 25%. Try to use your car's AC sparingly. On a cooler day, consider opening your car's windows to let fresh air in instead of cranking up its AC. Park your vehicle in the shade when you can, as it does not overheat, or the AC may be forced to work longer and harder to cool your car interior.
Fill it up the Right way.
Do not top off your tank, as harmful vapors can escape it, contributing to air pollution. Topping off your tank can also cause pressure to build in it and damage the vapor collection system. It's best to stop filling your tank when the pump clicks off.
GreenTech Automotive is a trusted Sonoma County auto repair shop. Whether your car is not handling as it used to or is consuming more fuel than usual, we can help. To make an appointment, call (707) 545-7076.