2000 Lexus RX 300 Owners Manual - Page 376

DRIVING TIPS HOW TO SAVE FUEL AND MAKE YOUR VEHICLE LAST LONGER Getting more kilometer/mileage from a liter/gallon of fuel is easy - just take it easy. It will help make your vehicle last longer, too. Here are some specific tips on how to save money on both fuel and repairs: D Keep your tires inflated at the correct pressure. Check the pressure every two weeks, or at least once a month. Underinflation causes tire wear and wastes fuel. D Do not carry unneeded weight in your vehicle. Excess weight puts a heavier load on the engine, causing greater fuel consumption. D Avoid lengthy warm-up idling. Once the engine is running smoothly, begin driving - but gently. Remember, however, that on cold winter days this may take a little longer. D Keep the automatic transmission overdrive turned on when engine braking is not required. Driving with the overdrive off will reduce the fuel economy. (For details, see "Automatic transmission" on page 304.) D Accelerate slowly and smoothly. Avoid jackrabbit starts. D Avoid long engine idling. If you have a long wait and you are not in traffic, it is better to turn off the engine and start again later. 359