For years, cars and driving have been associated with air pollution, burning fuel, and destroying our environment. While there is a lot of truth to that, it doesn’t have to be all that bad. State emissions programs have a made a huge difference in getting the smoke-belching beaters off the road – and keeping the rest of us on the up-and-up too – and modern vehicles come equipped with anti-smog devices to help with everyday exhaust. That’s not all, though! There is much you can do, short of purchasing a new alternative fuel car that can make a difference. A few minor adjustments to our driving habits and vehicle maintenance can make a vast difference to the environment, and in our opinion, to your trust in and enjoyment of your car.

Here’s a few pointers to get you headed in a green direction:

1. Keep your car’s engine running at peak performance. Fuel efficiency can be cut by as much as 30% by something as small as a misfiring spark plug.
2. Keep your tires aligned and properly inflated. This will increase your fuel consumption and prevent excessive wear to your tires.
3. Find a good mechanic who is ASE certified. These professionals have passed rigorous exams in areas such as engine performance and air conditioning.
4. Allow only certified technicians to service your air conditioner. Improperly handled, or not recycled, refrigerants could result in ozone-depleting chemicals being released into the atmosphere.
5. Change your driving habits! Don’t speed. Avoid sudden accelerations. Don’t allow your car to idle for more than a few seconds. Consolidate your errands to eliminate miles.
6. Lighten up. If you don’t need everything including the kitchen sink with you, don’t take it!
7. If you are a do-it-yourselfer, be responsible when disposing of fluids and batteries.
8. Choose an auto repair shop that cares about the environment. Many are going green now too.

We live in a city, but that doesn’t mean it needs to be dirty. Let’s all do our part to keep it green and clean.