Looking for ways to reduce your carbon footprint? Want to help the environment? It might be time to start paying attention to auto repair.
Those things might not seem to go together, but they do in many ways. Did you know the best way to create a greener, more carbon-neutral footprint is to improve all aspects of your life?
It doesn’t take getting rid of your car and walking or biking. It doesn’t take saving your money to buy a hybrid or EV.
Instead, it starts by making tiny improvements right now. Things that have a significant impact on what you’re doing every day.
Auto repair can help the environment. Here’s how.
Environmental impact of driving
It probably comes as no surprise that the majority of greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector are carbon dioxide emissions resulting from the combustion of petroleum-based products, like gasoline and diesel fuel.
Each gallon of gas your car burns creates 20 pounds of greenhouse gasses, up to 7 to 9 tons per year.
Want to drive better for the environment? Increase your miles per gallon. You can do that by buying a new car that increases your miles per gallon. You can also do that through auto repair.
Maintenance habits that can improve the environment
There are two approaches to auto repair: stick to a schedule, or wait until failure. Obviously, to keep your car in good working condition and make it as environmentally friendly as possible, it’s better to stay on top of things.
Some maintenance items are more impactful than others.
Oil Disposal
Used oil is dangerous and potentially deadly. You don’t want to leave motor oil around because it can cause harm. Used oil contains hazardous chemicals and heavy metals that can contaminate the soil and water if not properly disposed of. Recycling used oil is crucial to keep our environment safe and healthy. If you do this yourself, finding a place with green practices is imperative. Relying on a good auto repair shop ensures proper disposal every time.
Battery Disposal
Lead-acid batteries contain a variety of dangerous chemicals. Lead and sulfuric acid are toxic and can harm the environment if not correctly disposed of. Recycling used batteries is the responsible way to keep our planet healthy.
Engine Maintenance
A well-maintained engine is like a well-oiled machine; it runs smoothly and efficiently every single time you use it. Regular maintenance helps your engine perform at its best, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Keeping your engine in top shape extends its lifespan, reducing waste and making the world a greener place. Don’t wait until the check engine illuminates. Schedule auto repair to check and change out things like air filters, spark plugs, and other parts and components to keep your engine at peak performance.
Brake Maintenance
Worn or poorly maintained brakes impact one of the most critical safety systems. Faulty brakes can lead to more accidents, which means more scrap metal in landfills. When brakes wear down, they can reduce fuel efficiency and increase emissions. Worn-out brake pads can emit pollutants into the air and, if not fixed, cause smoke and even catch fire. Regular brake maintenance and replacement of worn components give your vehicle the stopping power it needs to be efficient and eco-friendly.
Tire Pressure
Properly inflated tires help your vehicle perform at its best. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, reducing fuel efficiency, and increasing emissions. Keeping your tires properly inflated is like having the right shoes; it helps you run smoothly and efficiently.
Air Conditioning
Ever driven your car on a hot summer day and kept the windows down instead of turning on the air conditioning? Many do, thinking it’s more fuel efficient. The truth is an efficient air conditioner will help your vehicle continue to run smoothly. Air conditioning systems use refrigerants that contribute to climate change. Newer cars use better refrigerants, which release less into the environment. Proper maintenance and disposal of refrigerants also help keep the environment in check. Using the air conditioning system efficiently can help conserve energy and help reduce its environmental impact. Use it only when you need to; otherwise, keep the windows rolled down.
Want to reduce your carbon footprint? Be a better driver
It’s not always about maintenance. Sometimes the best thing for the environment is to become a better driver. Improve your driving habits by doing these few things:
Avoid excessive acceleration and hard braking – Driving at a steady pace and anticipating stops can improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
Combine trips – Plan ahead and combine errands into one trip to reduce the number of miles driven and save fuel.
Use cruise control – Maintaining a steady speed can improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
Avoid idling – Idling in the driveway can waste fuel and increase emissions. Turn off the engine if you’re stopped for more than a minute.
Carpool – Sharing a ride with others can reduce the number of vehicles on the road and decrease emissions.
Stick to the speed limit – The faster you drive, the more fuel you consume. It can also wear out other parts if you have a heavy foot. Sudden stops and starts and heavy acceleration use more fuel.
Choose the right vehicle – Opting for a fuel-efficient vehicle with good gas mileage can significantly reduce carbon emissions over time. Live near the store? Why not walk instead? It’s a win/win for everyone.
Lighten up your load – Today’s vehicles are heavier than ever. It only adds to the weight if you fill it with sports equipment, workout gear, and stuff you need for school. Find a place for everything in the garage instead of leaving it in your backseat or trunk.
Change your approach to auto repair – it’s good for the environment
By making small changes to driving habits and changing your approach to auto repair, you can positively impact the environment and reduce your carbon footprint.
Schedule regular maintenance visits with one of our mechanics. It’s the best way to keep everything in good working condition, and replace minor issues before they become major problems.
How can we help you take care of your vehicle?