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and reduces exhaust emissions

19. Always use multi-grade oil. However, check the car manual and oil manufacturer's recommendations, before using any particular grade of oil.

20. Using engine oils thicker than the recommended oil cause 2% increase in fuel consumption.

21. Change oil filter along with engine oil.

22. Tuning the car regularly saves up to 6 percent of fuel

23. Service your car after every 5000 kilometers

24. Under inflated tires increase rolling resistance, leading to higher fuel consumption. A 25% decrease in tire pressure causes 5 to 10 more fuel consumption.

25. Radial tires not only results in riding comfort, but also saves fuel by 3 to 7 percent.

26. Test wheels for free rotation when the car is being serviced. Binding of brakes restrict free wheel movement, increase friction and cause excessive fuel consumption

27. Check the wheel alignment at periodic intervals, and rotate the wheels at the recommended time. Wheel rotation ensues all tires have the equal wear and tear, and the load is distributed proportionately. The consequences of not undertaking timely wheel rotations or wheel alignments is excessive fuel consumption

28. Symptoms like the engine emitting black smoke, less pulling power or the engine consuming large quantities of oil, all cause increased fuel consumption. Be prompt to take the car to the mechanic at the earliest.

29. Unnecessary loads like the luggage rack or unwanted accessories increase fuel consumption. Overheads luggage racks not only increase the load but also increase wind resistance, all of which leads to higher fuel consumption. A reduction of weight by 50 kg can lead up to 2% saving in fuel, when driving in the city.

30. Bigger the load, greater the fuel consumption. This is why small cars have a greater mileage than big cars.

Finally, understand that fuel consumption doubles in temperatures of 10 degrees centigrade or less. Before you start on a trip using your car, ask yourself three questions:
1. Is this trip really essential?
2. Can I combine this trip with other trips in the same direction?
3. Can I use a car pool or even public transportation for this trip?

Learn more about this author, Nayab Naseer.
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