Fuel Economy Factors
The following factors can lower your
vehicle's fuel economy:
●
Aggressive driving (hard
acceleration and braking)
●
Excessive idling, accelerating and
braking in stop-and-go traffic
●
Cold engine operation (engines
are more efficient when warmed
up)
●
Driving with a heavy load or the air
conditioner running
●
Improperly inflated tires
Improving Fuel Economy
Vehicle Maintenance
A properly maintained vehicle
maximizes fuel economy. Poor
maintenance can significantly reduce
fuel economy. Always maintain your
vehicle according to the maintenance
messages displayed on the multi-
information display (see Owner's
Maintenance Checks on page 513).
For example:
●
Use the recommended viscosity
motor oil, displaying the API
Certification Seal (see page 517).
●
Maintain proper tire inflation -
An underinflated tire increases
‘‘rolling resistance,’’ which reduces
fuel economy.
●
Avoid carrying excess weight in
your vehicle - It puts a heavier
load on the engine, increasing fuel
consumption.
●
Keep your vehicle clean - In
particular, a build-up of snow or mud
on your vehicle's underside adds
weight and rolling resistance.
Frequent cleaning helps your fuel
economy.
Drive Eff iciently
●
Drive moderately - Rapid
acceleration, abrupt cornering, and
hard braking increase fuel
consumption.
●
Observe the speed limit -
Aerodynamic drag has a big effect
on fuel economy at speeds above
45 mph (75 km/h). Reduce your
speed and you reduce the drag.
Trailers, car top carriers, roof
racks and bike racks are also big
contributors to increased drag.
●
Always drive in the highest gear
possible - If your vehicle has a
manual transmission, you can
boost your fuel economy by up
shifting as early as possible.
●
Avoid excessive idling - Idling
results in 0 miles per gallon (0 kms
per liter).
CONTINUED
Fuel Economy
429
Before Driving
11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu