Common Sense Tips To Max Your MPG
Hybrid vehicles are becoming a popular option as the eco-friendly phenomenon takes over the world. They’re not as green as fully-electric cars, but they’re often more affordable. For many, they serve as a stepping stone for those stuck on gasoline.
Hybrid cars get excellent mileage, with some models capping out around 59 mpg on the highway. How can you get the most out of your hybrid and maximize your investment?
Drive Smart
If you want to save gas with a standard internal combustion engine, you’d probably try new driving techniques. Don’t accelerate or brake too hard, stay under a certain speed and keep your windows rolled up to optimize aerodynamics. Many of the same rules apply to a hybrid. However, there are other settings you’ll need to consider when behind the wheel.
Take the time to go over your car’s manual and learn the different readouts on your dash. Once you understand the icons, you’ll have a better idea of how to drive your vehicle and make the most of it.
Use EV Mode
If your hybrid has an EV—electric vehicle—mode, learn how to take advantage of it. Most hybrids let you go into EV mode under certain conditions or below a specific speed. Figure out how to activate your car’s electric mode and when best to use it.
EV mode lets you switch to using the car’s electric motor, reducing your fuel consumption. It will impact your battery’s charge. However, if gas mileage is what you’re concerned about, EV mode will stretch it a little further.
Maintain Your Engine
Hybrid engines have internal combustion components you’ll need to maintain to get the most mileage out of your ride. Maintenance is essential, just like with standard gasoline engines.
Keep up your regular maintenance schedule, and consider upgrading to synthetic lubricants and additives during your next oil change. Switching to synthetic means your engine can run
longer and hotter before the oil breaks down. You can even put off your oil change, depending on how far you drive.
Lay Off the Accessories
Using all of your hybrid’s accessories can impact your gas mileage. Accessories drain the battery and make it harder to hit the mileage mark you’re hoping for. For example, running the A/C
on max can reduce MPG by 5 to 25 percent. Shut the air off once it’s cold and keep headlights off during the day.
New hybrids have LEDs instead of halogen bulbs, which draw less power. Unless it’s raining, you’re wasting energy by keeping your headlights on when the sun’s up.
Enjoy the Ride
If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of your daily commute, but don’t have the funds to purchase an electric car, a hybrid is an excellent compromise. Be smart about how you drive and maintain the engine to help you get the best mileage possible.
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