 Environment Friendly: Is Your Car Green Enough
Posted by carsandtrucks on Wednesday, February 20 @ 06:57:44 PST
I believe we all have to play a part in being as green as possible. Whether you buy into the global warming arguments or not, you have to agree tailpipe exhaust emissions can’t be good for the environment. Vehicle manufacturers are working diligently to build “greener” cars and trucks with hybrid technology. However, if you are not in a position to go out and purchase a new vehicle, there are several things you can do to your conventional gasoline engine that will cut down on the emissions coming from your vehicle. Most importantly, make sure
the on board emission control system in your vehicle is working properly. If you have a service engine soon light or check engine light on, that is a strong indication that you are not running as clean as you should. You should choose a shop with up to the date diagnostic equipment and adequately trained service technicians to address this type of concern. I have seen too many “back yard” shops that misdiagnose emission problems. This results in you buying parts that you don’t need. You should have your vehicle “tuned” (see motor tune ups) every 15000 miles or once per year. If you notice that your air conditioning is not cooling well, it probably is leaking refrigerant. This gas is very destructive to the ozone. Speaking of air conditioning, the less you use it, the better the fuel economy and the cleaner the air. If you can get by with your windows open rather then cooling yourself with the air conditioning, you will be breathing that precious air we are trying to save. If you find yourself in a situation where you have to idle for more than a minute, shut the engine off. It takes much less fuel to start an engine then it does to idle one. Another real fuel conserver is slowing down. I know you hate to hear that but for every 10 miles per hour faster then 50 mph you are burning about 10% more gasoline. When you need fuel try to purchase it at times of the day when the temperature is at its coolest. Gasoline fumes are increased with an increase in temperature. These fumes are particularly harmful to the environment. Try these suggestions and you will make a positive impact on our long term goal of a “greener” world.
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