The products offered by CarMD can help keep your vehicle running cleaner and more efficiently by catching problems with your emissions system. By identifying misfires, catalytic converter problems, or even a loose gas cap, you’ll be able to pinpoint the problem, improve your gas mileage and reduce emissions output:
- An estimated 170 million vehicles in the U.S. are equipped with OBD2 technology.
- 10% of all vehicles on the road in the U.S. have their “Check Engine” light on right now.
- Your vehicle will not pass its state emissions test if its “Check Engine” light is illuminated.
- A “Check Engine” light can be caused by a range of problems.
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CarMD encourages all drivers to do their part to help reduce emissions and keep their cars, trucks, SUVs and minivans in tip-top road condition for optimum performance. Here are some tips to help you drive green:
Avoid unnecessary driving - plan your trips wisely, making efficient routes and stops, and buying online when you can.
Keep your car well maintained - always follow your vehicle’s service manual and getting regular oil changes.
Ensure proper tire maintenance, tread and inflation - a properly inflated tire can increase gas mileage 10% to 30%. (Ideal inflation should be listed on the sidewall of the tire).
Tighten the gas cap after every fill-up - if left loose, it can set your check engine light on
Avoid stop-and-go traffic by driving at off-peak times - this helps on fuel economy and possibly reduce driving stress
Limit idling - did you know idling for over 10 seconds uses more gas and causes more pollution than simply restarting your engine?
Select the most efficient vehicle for your lifestyle - if you don’t need an 8-seat SUV on a regular basis, don’t buy one. Instead, consider renting a bigger vehicle for the few occasions in which you need it
Consider purchaing a green vehicle - If budget allows, owning a hybrid or one that runs on ethanol, which is made mostly of corn, will definitely help reduce emissions and avoid frequent trips to the gas pump
Get your annual or semi-annual emissions test - a majority of states and some local agencies require you to get your car tested before you can sell it or register it.
Never drive for extended periods of time with an illuminated "Check Engine" light.