Better driving economy may be obtained by thinking ahead, avoiding rapid starts and stops and adjusting the speed of your vehicle to immediate traffic conditions.

Observe the following rules:

• Bring the engine to normal operating temperature as soon as possible by driving with a light foot on the accelerator pedal for the first few minutes of operation. A cold engine uses more fuel and is subject to increased wear.

• Whenever possible, avoid using the vehicle for driving short distances. This does not allow the engine to reach normal operating temperature.

• Drive carefully and avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking.

• Use the transmission's Drive (D) position as often as possible and avoid using kickdown.

• Using the transmission's Sport mode may increase fuel consumption somewhat. Use the transmission's Drive (D) position as often as possible. See page 117 for additional information about Sport mode.

• Do not exceed posted speed limits.

• Avoid carrying unnecessary items (extra load) in the vehicle.

• Maintain correct tire pressure. Check tire pressure regularly (when tires are cold).

• Remove snow tires when threat of snow or ice has ended.

• Note that roof racks, ski racks, etc, increase air resistance and also fuel consumption.

• At highway driving speeds, fuel consumption will be lower with the air conditioning on and the windows closed than with the air conditioning off and the windows open.

• Using the onboard trip computer's fuel consumption modes can help you learn how to drive more economically.

Other factors that decrease gas mileage are:

• Dirty air cleaner
• Dirty engine oil and clogged oil filter
• Dragging brakes
• Incorrect front end alignment

Some of the above mentioned items and others are checked at the standard maintenance intervals.

WARNING
Driving with the tailgate open: Driving with the tailgate open could lead to poisonous exhaust gases entering the passenger compartment.
If the tailgate must be kept open for any reason, proceed as follows:
• Close the windows
• Set the ventilation system control to air flow to floor, windshield and side windows and the blower control to its highest setting.