Honda 2008 Ridgeline Owner's Manual page 192

Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy Factors
The following factors can lower your
vehicle's fuel economy:
Aggressive driving (hard
acceleration and braking)
Excessive idling, accelerating and
braking in stop-and-go traffic
Cold engine operation (engines
are more efficient when warmed
up)
Driving with a heavy load or the
air conditioner running
Improperly inflated tires
Improving Fuel Economy
Vehicle Maintenance
A properly maintained vehicle
maximizes fuel economy. Poor
maintenance can significantly reduce
fuel economy. Always maintain your
vehicle according to the maintenance
messages displayed on the
information display (see Owner's
Maintenance Checks on page
For example:
186
Use the recommended viscosity
motor oil, displaying the API
Certification Seal (see page
248 ).
Maintain proper tire inflation
An under-inflated tire increases
''rolling resistance,'' which reduces
fuel economy.
Avoid carrying excess weight in
It puts a heavier
your vehicle
load on the engine, increasing fuel
consumption.
Keep your vehicle clean
particular, a build-up of snow or
mud on your vehicle's underside
adds weight and rolling resistance.
Frequent cleaning helps your fuel
economy.
Drive Efficiently
Drive moderately
acceleration, abrupt cornering,
and hard braking increase fuel
consumption.
245 ).
Observe the speed limit
Aerodynamic drag has a big effect
on fuel mileage at speeds above 45
mph (75 km/h). Reduce your
speed and you reduce the drag.
Trailers, car top carriers, roof
racks and bike racks are also big
contributors to increased drag.
Always drive in the highest gear
possible
manual transmission, you can
boost your fuel economy by up
In shifting as early as possible.
Avoid excessive idling
results in 0 miles per gallon.
Minimize the use of the air
conditioning system
puts an extra load on the engine
which makes it use more fuel. Use
the fresh-air ventilation when
Rapid possible.
Plan and combine trips
Combine several short trips into
one. A warmed-up engine is more
fuel efficient than a cold one.
If your vehicle has a
Idling
The A/C