Keep your vehicle in shape
Read the owner's manual: Follow the maintenance recommendations in your owner's manual. You'll maximize fuel, optimize its resale value, save on repairs, and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
Change the oil: Frequently changing your oil is one of the best ways to keep your engine in top condition. Your owner's manual will tell you what type of oil to use and how often it needs to be changed. In Canada, the average time between oil changes is every three months — about 5000 km. The best oils for fuel economy are labelled "Energy Conserving." Remember to recycle your old engine oil — just one litre of oil can contaminate two million litres of water!
Maintain the mechanical systems: Unmaintained mechanical systems can affect fuel performance. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for engine, cooling and ignition system, brake, drivetrain and emission control system checks. For more info on driving your vehicle.
Check your tires: Operating a vehicle with just one tire under-inflated by 6 psi (40 kPa) can reduce the life of the tire by 10,000 km and increase the vehicle's fuel consumption by three per cent. Check your tire pressure monthly, and on days when the temperature has dropped significantly. Rotating tires also helps prolong their life and improves fuel economy. For most vehicles, tires should be rotated every 10,000 km — about twice a year.