HONDA 2005 Civic Hybrid - Owner's Manual - Manual (Page 119)

Always maintain your vehicle
according to the maintenance
schedule. See
(see page
).
an underinflated tire
causes more ‘‘rolling resistance,’’
which uses more fuel.
Drive moderately. Rapid
acceleration, abrupt cornering and
hard braking use more fuel.
Always drive in the highest gear
possible.
You may find that your Civic Hybrid’s
unique combination of an engine and
an electric motor has driving
characteristics that are somewhat
different from what you are used to.
Shift Up and Shift Down indicators
(manual transmission only) on the
instrument panel show when to shift
to a higher or lower gear. By shifting
as soon as the indicator comes on,
you will keep the engine operating in
its most economical range.
Engine oil also affects fuel
economy. The fuel efficient, low-
viscosity 0W-20 oil recommended
for your Civic Hybrid is
formulated to help the engine use
less fuel. This oil is available at
your dealer.
The build-up of snow or mud on
your vehicle’s underside adds
weight and rolling resistance.
Frequent cleaning helps your fuel
mileage and reduces the chance of
corrosion.
Try to maintain a constant speed.
Every time you slow down and
speed up, your vehicle uses extra
fuel. Use the cruise control when
appropriate.
Wind resistance causes vehicles to
use more fuel at higher speeds.
Driving at moderate speeds on the
highway also reduces wind
resistance and conserves fuel.
The current fuel mileage display
allows you to monitor your fuel
mileage and adjust your driving
habits to save fuel.
Using the ECON mode with the
A/C off is the most effective way
to get the best fuel economy.
Combine several short trips into
one.
144
For example,
CONTINUED
Improving Fuel Economy
Owner’s
Maintenance Checks
Fuel Economy
B
e
fo
re
D
riv
ing
117
Main Menu Table of Contents