by Srikanth Radhakrishna

Created on: July 20, 2010

Getting good mileage from a four - wheel drive vehicle is a challenge.  There have been many innovations in the automobile industry in an endeavor to increase fuel efficiency.  Research is going on to improve fuel injection systems.  

Here is a list of things that you can do to get better gas mileage from your four - wheel drive vehicle:

- Always make sure that the tyres are inflated appropriately:  This is basic for any vehicle owner.  Driving your four - wheel drive vehicle with pressure less that what is recommended will lead to wastage of gas.  

-Plan your route: Plan your trip and stick to your plan.  This will reduce unnecessary travelling.

-Keep the fuel injectors clean:  You may use additives like Techron to clean the injectors.  But it is a good idea to get professional help.  Make sure that you always use branded spark plugs.  

-Minimize the usage of air conditioner:  It has been observed that driving your vehicle with AC reduces the mileage by nearly one mile per gallon.  But do not roll your windows down to get fresh air.  This will also reduce the mileage as it creates a drag.  You may use a fan.

-Always make sure that the air filter is clean: It is a well known fact that you get better mileage with more air flow.  

-Keep you leg away from the brake pedal: Make sure that you keep you leg away from the brake pedal.   Some drivers tend to rest their leg on the brake pedal.  This consumes more fuel.  Also avoid accelerating unnecessarily.  

-Maintain optimum speeds:  Maintain consistent speed.  Do not exceed maximum speed recommended by the manufacturer.  

-Use power programmer: You may use power programmers like Hypertech Max Energy.  An engine needs basic elements like air, fuel and spark.  The programmers optimize these three elements to produce maximum performance.  You may get more details about Hypertech Max Energy on their company website http://www.hypertech.com.

-Use a cover on your vehicle: Using a cover reduces the drag on the vehicle.  It is observed that it increased mileage by nearly one mile per gallon.  

-Always use synthetic lubricants:  Synthetic oil and gear lubricants reduce the friction inside the engine and the axle. 

-Avoid carrying unnecessary things:  Avoid using your four - wheel drive vehicle as a store room.  Keep only those things which are necessary.

The implementing the above tips you will be able to save substantial amount of fuel.

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