How to get Better Hybrid Gas Mileage

After purchasing a hybrid car or a hybrid SUV, many drivers are disappointed that they aren't getting the gas mileage they thought they would. Fortunately, there are easy ways to increase your hybrid gas mileage by adjusting your driving habits and making sure your hybrid car is well maintained.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. 
    

   Make sure that your tires are properly inflated. This can increase your hybrid gas mileage by up to three percent. Follow the recommended inflation pressure for your hybrid car, which is usually listed in the owner's manual and on a sticker by the driver's side door.

2. 
    

   While driving hybrid vehicles, avoid fast acceleration and slamming on the brakes. Whenever possible, try to anticipate stops and gradually decrease your speed. Also, avoid going over 60 mph as much as possible. Hybrid vehicles get significantly less gas mileage at high speeds, and for most hybrids, the optimal speed is 40-45 mph with minimal stops.

3. 
    

   Drive cautiously during your car's break-in period, which is up to 10,000 miles for hybrid vehicles. It is especially important to avoid rapid acceleration during this time. Most hybrid drivers get better gas mileage after the break-in period.

4. 
    

   Keep up with your car's scheduled maintenance. Most hybrid vehicles require a specific type of oil. If you take your car to an auto shop for maintenance, make sure the mechanic uses the correct oil.

Tips & Warnings

• As with any car, it's important to plan ahead and run all your errands in one trip to get the best hybrid gas mileage.
• Do not over-inflate your tires. Doing so causes your tires to wear out more quickly and could potentially cause a blow out.

Resources

• Who Killed the Electric Car?
• Forward Drive: The Race to Build "Clean" Cars for the Future
• The Crooked Mile: Through peak oil, biofuels, hybrid cars, and global climate change to reach a brighter future

[sonni57]

on 7/7/2009 Good advice on getting better gas mileage.