Fuel Economy

Recommendations for Reducing Fuel Consumption

• The vehicle must be serviced regularly according to the prescribed maintenance schedule. Refer to "Maintenance Under the Owner's Responsibility" on page 428 of this manual.

For example, tire pressure below the specified level increases rolling resistance and fuel consumption.

When driving in winter, snow packs into the underbody cavities, which increases vehicle weight and rolling resistance.

Washing the vehicle regularly reduces fuel consumption and also reduces the risk of body corrosion.

• Drive at a moderate speed. Rapid acceleration, sharp turns, and hard braking increase fuel consumption.

• Always shift to the highest gear that allows the engine to run smoothly.

• To reduce the number of cold engine starts, combine several short trips into one longer trip whenever possible.

• Operating the air conditioner places an additional load on the engine and increases fuel consumption. In moderate outside temperatures, use the ventilation system without the air conditioner.

• For vehicles with a manual transmission: The gear shift indicator on the instrument panel shows the recommended moment to shift up or down to the next gear. Following the indicator will keep the engine operating in its most fuel-efficient range.

• Try to maintain a constant speed. Each braking and subsequent acceleration consumes additional fuel. Where possible, use the cruise control or adaptive cruise control system (if equipped).