1996 Ford Explorer Owner's Manual - Page 347

Servicing Your Explorer Comparisons With Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Transport Canada (TC) Fuel Economy Estimates EPA fuel economy figures are obtained from laboratory tests under simulated road conditions and may not reflect the actual conditions you experience or your style of driving. The EPA fuel economy estimate is not a guarantee that you will achieve the fuel economy shown. Improving Fuel Economy Fuel economy is affected by a number of variables which can reduce efficiency. You can improve fuel economy by understanding these variables and minimizing their effect. The following decrease fuel economy: s Lack of regular, scheduled maintenance s Excessive speed s Rapid acceleration and excessive speed s Driving with your foot on the brake s Sudden stops s Extended engine idling s Using speed control in hilly terrain s Extended use of the A/C, defroster, rear window defroster and other accessories s Underinflated tires s Heavy loads s Aftermarket add-ons such as bike, ski or luggage racks, bug deflectors, etc. 347