Category Archives: Fuel Economy

Wasteful Thinking

With the weather getting colder, you might be tempted to start your vehicle up, let it idle for 15 or 20 minutes and then get in the nice, cozy cabin.  Some vehicles offer remote starting that let you do that from the comfort of your home or apartment.  But is letting your vehicle idle like that good for it? Manufacturers say it doesn't harm the vehicle.  They say it's because modern vehicles are made differently from those in the past.  Just about all newer vehicles employ fuel injection which uses computers to adjust the amount of gasoline that goes into the cylinders.  The engine gets only the fuel it needs, taking conditions into account. Older vehicles, on the other hand, used to use carburetors.  When you started a cold engine, the carburetor wasn't able to adjust the gasoline amount depending on conditions.  Some of the gasoline would mix with oil and the pistons wouldn't get the same lubrication as they would with undiluted oil. So yes, you ca ... read more

Categories:

Fuel Economy

Improve Fuel Economy with Proper Maintenance at Happy Wallet Quality Auto Repair in NAPLES

With NAPLES gas prices being what they are, many of us in FL are driving less and looking into purchasing smaller or more efficient vehicles. NAPLES area residents who have to drive a lot, have large families or need four-wheel drive are particularly hard hit by the cost of fuel in FL. But there are things all NAPLES drivers can do to save fuel: We can improve our driving habits and stay on top of preventive maintenance at Happy Wallet Quality Auto Repair. These things make small savings possible, but they can really add up.Let's start with driving habits. One major gas-eater is jackrabbit starts. A smooth, gradual acceleration uses a lot less fuel. It's also easier on your engine and drivetrain, so you'll prolong their lives as well.If you drive with one foot on the brake, stop. That creates drag, increasing fuel usage and reducing the useful life of your brakes.Slowing down can really add up on gas savings over time for NAPLES drivers. Driving five t ... read more

Categories:

Fuel Economy
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