Car maintenance
Have checks and adjustments carried out in accordance with the “Service schedule”.
Tyres
Check the pressure of the tyres routinely at an interval of no more than 4 weeks: if the pressure is too low, consumption levels increase as resistance to rolling is higher.
Unnecessary loads
Do not travel with too much luggage stowed in the boot. The weight of the car (especially when driving in town) and its trim greatly affects consumption and stability.
Roof rack/ski rack
Remove the roof rack or the ski rack from the roof as soon as they are no longer used. These accessories lower air penetration and adversely affect consumption levels. When needing to carry particularly voluminous objects, preferably use a trailer.
Electric devices
Use electric devices only for the amount of time needed. Rear heated window, additional headlights, windscreen wipers and heater fan need a considerable amount of energy, therefore increasing the requirement of current increases fuel consumption (up to +25% in the urban cycle).
Climate control
The air conditioner is an additional load which greatly affects the engine leading to higher consumption (on average up to +20%). When the temperature outside the vehicle permits it, use the air vents where possible.
Spoilers
The use of non-certified aerodynamic items may adversely affect air drag and consumption levels.
See also:
Annual inspection schedule
For cars with an annual mileage of below 20,000 km (for example about 15,000
km) the following yearly inspection programme is advised:
❒ check tyre conditions/wear and adjust pressure if req ...
Side doors
Check that it is safe to open a door before doing so.
Make sure that the left-hand sliding side door is completely closed before
refueling (see “At the filling station” in this chapter). You cou ...
Sidelights and low beams
The warning light on the dial turns on when sidelights, parking lights or low
beams are turned on. ...


