Car Preparation

Paying some attention to your car before you set off on a journey can help save money and reduce pollution.

Weight – reduce weight, and fuel consumption, by simply removing unnecessary items from your car that do not need to be there for a particular journey. These can include buggies, golf clubs, tools, footwear and so on.

Remove roof racks – the wind resistance dramatically increases fuel consumption.

Tyre pressure – ensure that you have the correct tyre pressure. Every 6psi the tyre is under-inflated the fuel consumption increases by 1%.

Maintain your car – check that your engine is properly tuned as this improves performance and limits fuel consumption.

Refuelling – avoid overfilling the tank as spilled fuel evaporates and releases harmful emissions.

Check your windows and lights – ensuring that your windows are clean and your lights are working will make your journey safer.

The ETA is a not-for-profit ethical organisation providing motorists with carbon-neutral breakdown cover and insurance products. As well as encouraging responsible driving to reduce carbon, the ETA campaigns for sustainable transport.