Economic driving and car maintenance help keep costs at bay despite rocketing fuel price.

– Driving distances tend to be long in the summertime and even the slightest change in fuel consumption increases costs, says ExxonMobil Finland’s Technical Advisor Krister Kronqvist.
Car maintenance is recommendable before the summer break. For example, it is best to check the oil and change it if needed before a long drive. – After the winter, the motor oil often includes impurities such as soot, dirt, water or fuel. These impurities reduce the lubricating function of oil, tells Kronqvist.

Anticipation is the cornerstone of economic driving
In addition to the maintenance procedures, economic driving is good for any holiday goer’s car and its engine. Avoiding fast braking, unnecessary acceleration, idle running of the engine and the busiest rush hour can help reduce fuel consumption. It is recommendable to plan your driving route in advance to avoid extra turns, and with this the navigator comes in handy.

– If you have an on-board computer, you should definitely use it. It is an excellent way to learn how to drive more economically, Kronqvist advices.

What kind of oil does my car need?

Mobil 1 site has an easy-to-use oil selector tool that will help you choose the right motor oil based on the make and model of your car.

Many car manufacturers recommend using synthetic lubricants. Synthetic motor oils lubricate well in all operating temperatures and conditions. They reduce engine friction and protect the motor from detrition. It is wise to pay attention to the quantity and quality of the engine oil, since it has a direct impact on fuel consumption.

ExxonMobil’s checklist for a smart summer driver:

A clean and well maintained car is safer and more comfortable and it consumes less fuel. Also the way of driving has an impact on fuel consumption. What should you take into account when getting ready for the highway in the summer?

• Check the treads, tire pressures and tire wheel alignments prior to the trip.
• Your car deserves a summer cleaning, too. Wash it carefully from the outside, also underneath. Dry and wax the surface after washing. Vacuum and wash the interiors of the car. Remember to wash the windshield and the other windows from the inside, too!
• Check the wipers’ condition. Replace the worn wiper blades. Top up the windshield washer fluid tank.
• Make sure that the cooling system has enough coolant for the hot summer days.
• Check the condition of engine air filter by looking at the darkness of the filter paper and replace it if necessary. It is also good to replace the indoor air filter once a year.
• If your shock absorbers appear to be worn out, replace them with new ones.
• Test your brakes. The brake fluids ought to be replaced at least once every two years.
• Check the amount of motor oil. Top up the tank or change the oils entirely. Use full synthetic oil if recommended by the car manufacturer.
• Anticipation makes it is easier to be economical. Plan your route in advance. Being attentive behind the wheel helps you avoid sudden braking and unnecessary acceleration.
• You are not alone on the road. Courtesy and respect for the traffic rules make the journey nicer for everyone.
• Remember to pack some good snacks with you, have enough of breaks and a positive attitude for the journey. These will make even the lengthy trips plain sailing!
  
  

Source: Krister Kronqvist, ExxonMobil

About ExxonMobil Lubricants and Petroleum Specialties Company
ExxonMobil Lubricants and Petroleum Specialties Company is a leading marketer of finished lubricants, asphalts and specialty products, as well as one of the world's largest suppliers of lubricant base stocks.

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