by George Ivanov

Created on: May 06, 2008   Last Updated: May 20, 2008

Recently, an oil of barrel passed the $120 mark, like a road sign, and the forecasts predict a rise to $200 within this, if not next year. And with the very highly publicized threat of global warming, you, the average person, can do much to help offset the effects of a warmer climate by reducing the emissions from your vehicle.

What does that involve? Well, for one, keeping your car well maintained is integral, if you are to make a difference. Changing the oil in the engine every few thousand kilometers ensures that it operates efficiently and as cleanly as possible. Make sure the cooling system is working properly, because overheating will only assist in damaging the engine and make it more inefficient in its fuel use. Fuel injection is a feature that comes with many new cars, and it ensures that the fuel-air mix is optimal to allow gasoline to burn as fully as possible. Don't wait for the arrow on the gas meter to hover over the "E", before you refuel. While gasoline is generally filtered, heavier particles sink to the bottom of the reservoir, and they have the potential to obstruct the intake valves, if they're allowed to be sucked in. So, when you see the arrow hovering around the quarter level of the fuel gauge, don't wait and drop by your local gas station.

Tire pressure is also important. The level between 30 to 33 psi is optimal for tire pressure, where those numbers represent the balance between the weight bearing down on the wheels, and the friction they encounter against the road. The pressure can be easily checked with a manual, or a digital, meter, which only needs to be pressed against the pump valve on the tire to gauge an accurate reading. The car manual will always come with a recommendation for optimum tire pressure, and it will fall within the aforementioned range. Do assure to follow it precisely.

Alright, let's move on to the driving choices you may make. Now that your car is in tip-top shape, you need a place to go. Would that be a friend's house, the mall, the next town, or a cross-country trip, is entirely up to you. However, it is important to plan the most efficient route. In other words, you must pick the route that will take the shortest time, and consequently, will use less fuel. Keep in mind, driving in the city uses more gasoline than driving on the highway. The reason: traffic lights, stop signs and traffic jams. When in the city, you will inevitably use up more gas, but planning your route beforehand can reduce the amount of emissions

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