Honda Civic Hybrid 2009 Online Reference Owner's Manual page 263

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Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy Factors
The following factors can lower your
vehicle's fuel economy:
Aggressive driving (hard
acceleration and braking)
Excessive idling, accelerating and
braking in stop-and-go traffic
Cold engine operation (engines
are more efficient when warmed
up)
Driving with a heavy load or the
air conditioner running
Improperly inflated tires
Improving Fuel Economy
Vehicle Maintenance
A properly maintained vehicle
maximizes fuel economy. Poor
maintenance can significantly reduce
fuel economy. Always maintain your
vehicle according to the maintenance
messages displayed on the multi-
information display (see
Maintenance Checks on page
For example:
260
Use the recommended viscosity
motor oil, displaying the API
Certification Seal (see page
297 ).
Maintain proper tire inflation
An underinflated tire increases
''rolling resistance,'' which reduces
fuel economy.
Avoid carrying excess weight in
your vehicle
load on the engine, increasing fuel
consumption.
Keep your vehicle clean
particular, a build-up of snow or
mud on your vehicle's underside
adds weight and rolling resistance.
Frequent cleaning helps your fuel
economy.
Drive Efficiently
Drive moderately
acceleration, abrupt cornering,
and hard braking increase fuel
consumption.
Owner's
294 ).
2009 Civic Hybrid
It puts a heavier
In
Rapid
I n f o r ma t i o n P r o v i d e d b y :
Observe the speed limit
Aerodynamic drag has a big effect
on fuel mileage at speeds above 45
mph (75 km/h). Reduce your
speed and you reduce the drag.
Trailers, car top carriers, roof
racks and bike racks are also big
contributors to increased drag.
Always drive in the highest gear
possible If your vehicle has a
manual transmission, you can
boost your fuel economy by up
shifting as early as possible.
Avoid excessive idling
results in 0 miles per gallon.
Idling