(from the EPA at: http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/road.html)

1.  Buy smart

There are now a wide range of more fuel-efficient vehicles that produce less greenhouse gas pollution.  Before buying or renting a vehicle, check out EPA’S Green Vehicle Guide and the EPA/DOE Fuel Economy Guide Website. The Green Vehicle Guide describes emissions of air pollution and greenhouse gases for each model, and the Fuel Economy Guide focuses on fuel efficiency, including side-by-side fuel economy comparisons.

2.  Drive smart

To improve fuel economy and reduce greenhouse gas pollution, go easy on the brakes and gas pedal, avoid hard accelerations, reduce time spent idling, and unload unnecessary items in your trunk to reduce weight. If you have a removable roof rack and you are not using it, take it off to improve your fuel economy by as much as 5 percent. Use overdrive and cruise control. For more tips, visit the EPA Fuel Economy Guide website.

3.  Tune your vehicle

A well-maintained car is more fuel-efficient, produces less greenhouse gas pollution, is more reliable, and is safer! So keep your car tuned up, follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, and use the recommended grade of motor oil. Check and replace the air filter regularly. For more details, visit the EPA Fuel Economy Guide website.

4.  Check your tires

Check your tire pressure regularly. Under-inflation increases tire wear, reduces your fuel economy by up to 3 percent, and leads to increased greenhouse gas pollution. You can find the correct tire pressure on the door to the glove compartment or on the driver’s door pillar.

5.  Give your car a rest

Use public transportation, carpool, walk, or bike whenever possible. Consider options like telecommuting (working from home via phone or over the Internet).  Combine activities and errands into one trip. Leaving your car at home just two days a week will reduce greenhouse gas pollution by an average of 1,600 pounds per year.

6.  Use renewable fuels

Both E85 and biodiesel are renewable fuels that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions from your vehicle. E85 is a fuel blend containing 85% ethanol that can be used in Flex Fuel Vehicles, which can be fueled with E85 or traditional gasoline. If you own a diesel vehicle, consider filling up with a biodiesel blend such as B5, a fuel blend containing 5% biodiesel. The DOE Alternative Fueling Station Locator can help you locate both E85 and biodiesel fuel stations in your area.