When it comes to celebrating Earth Day and helping the environment, vehicle
owners and drives should not feel left out. By changing a few habits, motorists
can do their part in helping the environment, say the experts at the National
Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). ASE recommends regular vehicle maintenance and better driving habits as two easy-to-implement strategies. What’s more, better automotive habits will help your vehicle last longer and command a better resale price.
The following tips from ASE can put you on the road to environmentally conscious car care:
·
Keep the engine running at peak performance—a
misfiring spark plug can reduce fuel efficiency as much as 30 percent. Replace
filters and fluids as recommended in the manual.
·
Today’s vehicles have much cleaner tailpipe
emissions that they did thirty years ago. But a poorly running engine or faulty
exhaust system will cause your vehicle to pollute much more than it would
otherwise. Don’t ignore that ‘Service Engine’ light.
·
Keep tires properly inflated and aligned to
reduce the engine’s effort and, thus, gasoline consumption. What’s more, your
tires will last longer too, saving you money and easing the burden at recycling
centers.
·
Have your vehicle’s air conditioner serviced
only by a technician certified to handle and recycle refrigerants. Older air
conditioners contain ozone-depleting chemicals, which could be released into
the atmosphere through improper service.
·
Avoid speeding and sudden accelerations; both
habits guzzle gas. When waiting for friends or family, shut off the engine.
Consolidate daily errands to eliminate unnecessary driving.
·
Remove excess items from the vehicle, since less
weight means better mileage. Remove that roof-top luggage carrier after
vacations to reduce air drag.
·
If you do your own repairs, properly dispose of
engine fluids and batteries. Some repair facilities accept these items. Or call
your local government. Remember too that improperly disposed fluids such as
anti-freeze can harm pets and wildlife.
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) was founded
to improve the quality of automotive service and repair through the voluntary
testing and certification of automotive technicians. About 400,000 technicians
and parts specialists hold current ASE certifications. They work at all types
of facilities, from new car dealerships, to national chains, independent repair
shops, fleets, and more. The employers often display the blue and white ASE
sign, while the technicians wear shoulder insignia or lapel pins identifying
himself or herself as ASE certified. Visit www.ase.com for more information,
including seasonal car care tips.
Courtesy
of Car Care News Service
