Cheaper, Better, Faster Mary Hunt - Baker Publishing Group

AutomobilesDownshifting uses more gasand wears out the clutch andtransmission. Generally it’scheaper to replace worn brakesthan a worn clutch.Driving—don’t useoverdrive or fifth gearDon’t use overdrive or fifthgear until the car has warmedup sufficiently—approximately10 minutes under normal drivingand weather conditions.The rear axle and transmissionfluids must be adequatelywarmed for these units towork properly and efficiently.Driving—hands off the gearshiftDon’t drive with your handresting on the gear shift. Itmay feel good, but it adds unnecessarywear to the transmissionselector forks.Driving defensively—asif driving for fiveDrive for five drivers: yourself,drivers in front, drivers at bothsides, and the driver behindyou. Be prepared at all timesfor at least four of them to dothe unexpected.Driving left-footedIf your car has an automatictransmission, you may betempted to brake with yourleft foot. Bad habit. Leftfootedbraking leads to ridingthe brakes, which results in aslew of problems: poor gasmileage, reduced engine life,and worn brakes.Driving shoesKeep a pair of driving shoes inthe car. Sharp heels and sportshoes wear holes in the carpet.Use a carpet sample or remnantunder the pedals to prolong thelife of your vehicle’s carpet.Driving too slowlyDon’t poke along in city driving.The slower you go doesn’tmean the slower the car willwear. Actually the opposite istrue. Slow driving costs youmiles per gallon and increasesengine deposits. Keep your cityspeed in the economical 35 to19Mary Hunt, Cheaper, Better, FasterRevell Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group, © 2013. Used by permission.