Maximize your Trips with These Fuel Efficiency Tips!

Maximize Your MPG: Tips for Fuel Efficiency in Boston

As gas prices fluctuate, finding ways to save at the pump is always a priority for drivers in Boston. The good news is that new or used car owners can significantly improve their overall fuel economy—by as much as 20 percent—by combining smart driving habits with regular maintenance.

Fuel-Saving Driving Habits

How you operate your vehicle has the biggest impact on fuel efficiency. Adopt these habits for better mileage around Boston:

• Plan Your Trips: Consolidate errands into one trip. You can also try to carpool, walk, or take public transit to your destination to reduce overall miles driven.
• Do Not Speed: Driving 60 mph on the highway instead of 70 mph can save you 2-4 miles per gallon over the duration of your trip. Try using your cruise control as it helps reduce fuel consumption by maintaining a constant speed.
• Throttle Less: Accelerate and brake gently and easily. This saves on fuel and reduces wear and tear on your brakes and tires.
• Skip the Long Warm-Up: Thanks to modern technology, most cars only need about 30 seconds to get warm before driving. Extended idling wastes fuel.
• Keep Windows Up at Highway Speeds: Having the windows down on the highway can decrease fuel economy by up to 10 percent due to increased aerodynamic drag.

Fuel Efficiency Through Maintenance

The health of your Honda directly affects how efficiently it uses fuel. Regular maintenance is essential for peak performance:

• Tire Pressure: Make sure your tires are set to the recommended pressure at all times (check your driver's side door jamb). This alone can increase fuel economy by as much as 3.3 percent.
• Oil Quality: Use only the manufacturer's specified motor oil and change it according to factory recommendations to ensure internal engine parts move smoothly.
• Clean Filters: A clean engine air filter and fuel filter allow air and fuel to flow unencumbered, helping you save up to 10 percent on fuel costs.
• Check Engine Sensors: Malfunctioning components like the oxygen sensors or other emissions system parts, if damaged, can decrease fuel mileage by 20 percent or more.
• Reduce Weight: The less weight in your vehicle, the better fuel economy you will see. An extra 100 pounds increases fuel consumption by 1 to 2 percent.

If you take care of your car, it will take care of you. Is it time to schedule your vehicle for regular Honda maintenance? Would you like your fuel systems checked before that long weekend trip out of Boston? If so, the certified technicians at Parkway Honda Boston are here to help. Schedule your routine auto service appointment today, and check out our service specials for great deals.