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Last Updated: Mar 26th, 2006 - 13:41:45 |
(NUI) - Earth-protective alternative-fueled and hybrid vehicles are gaining market share but still account for a small percentage of vehicles on the road.
But motorists who want to "go green" in the meantime don't have to change vehicles to help the environment. Instead, they should change a few habits, according to the experts at the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.
ASE recommends two easy-to-implement strategies: regular vehicle maintenance and better driving habits.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.
* Take care of your tires. Keep them properly inflated and aligned to reduce the engine's effort and gasoline consumption.
* Find a good technician. Ask friends for recommendations. Check the reputation of the repair shop with your local consumer group. Check out the technicians' credentials. ASE-certified auto technicians have passed one or more national exams in specialties such as engine performance and air conditioning.
* 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.
* Conserve gasoline. Avoid speeding and sudden acceleration; 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. Less weight means better mileage. After a trip, remove the luggage carrier from the roof of your car.
* If you do your own repairs, properly dispose of engine fluids and batteries. Call your local government to find out how. Some repair facilities also accept these items.
For a free brochure with Earth-friendly automotive tips, send a self-addressed, stamped long envelope to: ASE Environment Brochure, Dept. NU-021, 101 Blue Seal Drive, S.E., Suite 101, Leesburg, VA 20175, or visit www.asecert.org for more information.
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