Just bought a used car..?

Question

I just bought a 12 year old civic. I am wondering if anybody can tell me how to help save gas?? use my gas mileage as best as i can?

Answer 1

Make sure you have a new air filter. A tune up will help as well, it will take you a few hours but could add 10% or more to you mileage.

Get a shop manual for your specific model at any autoparts store (Under $20) it will help you with the tune up process.

For the tune up I recommend:
- New spark plugs, the cheapest platinum ones they sell ($25 or less)
- New distributor cap
- New rotor for the distributor
- You can test the wires with a ohmmeter to see if you need a new set of wires...also look for any cracks etc in the wires, if there is any damage get a new set.
- New fuel filter
- Also watch your temp gauge as your car warms up to see if the thermostat is working correctly. It should warm up to a point and then drop back a bit and remain at this slightly lower position the rest of the time. If the gauge very very slowly warms up while you drive and never falls back, get a new thermostat.


Also make sure you keep your air pressure up to the recommended spec which should be printed inside the opening of the driver's door.

Those are my ideas :)

MikeC

EDIT: Also if you don't know when the last time the timing belt was replaced I would save up some money (or a weekend and a buddy) and have it done...it is cheap insurance because if the belt breaks your engine will likely be totaled.

Answer 2

At age twelve you likely have some worn internal engine parts meaning that compression is down and fuel mileage may suffer some. Just keep the car in good tune, clean filters, good oil and make sure tire pressure is at recommended psi. Other than that it's up to your driving habits weather you gain or lose fuel mileage. If you drive like a grandma, it goes up; if you have a leadfoot, you will be seeing more of the gas pumps in your future.

Answer 3

A tune up would do a world of good.

Answer 4

complete tune up, new fuel filer, thermostat,