Fuel Economy - Honda 1996 Civic Coupe Owner's Manual

Fuel Economy

The condition of your car and your
driving habits are the two most
important things that affect the fuel
mileage you get.
Vehicle Condition
Always maintain your car according
to the maintenance schedule. This
will keep it in top operating condition.
An important part of that mainte-
nance is the Periodic Checks (see
page 128). For example, an under-
inflated tire causes more "rolling
resistance," which uses fuel. It also
wears out faster, so check the tire
pressure at least monthly. In winter,
the build-up of snow on your car's
underside adds weight and rolling
resistance. Frequent cleaning helps
your fuel mileage and reduces the
chance of corrosion.
Before Driving
Driving Habits
You can improve fuel economy by
driving moderately. Rapid acceler-
ation, abrupt cornering, and hard
braking use more fuel.
Always drive in the highest gear
practical for your speed and road
conditions. Gain the best fuel
economy by using the upshift
indicator, if equipped, to direct your
shifting during acceleration (see
page 36).
Depending on traffic conditions, try
to maintain a constant speed. Every
time you slow clown and speed up,
your car uses extra fuel. Use the
cruise control, when appropriate, to
increase fuel economy.
A cold engine uses more fuel than a
warm engine. It is not necessary to
"warm-up" a cold engine by letting it
idle for a long time. You can drive
away in about a minute, no matter
how cold it is outside. The engine
will warm up faster, and you get
better fuel economy. To cut down on
the number of "cold starts," try to
combine several short trips into one.
The air conditioning puts an extra
load on the engine which makes it
use more fuel. Turn off the A / C to
cut down on air conditioning use.
Use the flow-through ventilation
when the outside air temperature is
moderate.