Money-saving tip: When to switch off your engine

Avoid letting the engine warm up for five minutes before driving � it�s a big waste of fuel

15 August 2008

Did you know by switching off your engine at the right time you could save hundreds of pounds on fuel each year?

We explode some car engine myths and help you save money on fuel � by making it go further.

Starting the engine

� Avoid sorting out your mirrors, glove box or other action after starting your engine. Only switch your engine on when you're completely ready to drive

� Avoid letting the engine warm up for five minutes before driving � it�s a big waste of fuel. Instead, drive gently for the first few minutes until the engine warms. Despite popular belief, it�s safe to start the journey on a cold engine � even in winter

Switching the engine off

� Switch off your engine if you�re likely to be at a standstill for a long time. But a word of warning � doing this continually could flatten your battery

� Switch off electronic controls before turning your engine off, including lights, wipers, radio and the heater. This allows extra charge to run into the car battery, making it last longer

Save money on your motoring: 100 top tips

Video: The drivers who shun speed for green

View this footage of �Hypermilers� � a group of committed US drivers who do everything they can to be the greenest drivers on the planet:

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Disclaimer: Auto Trader cannot guarantee the above advice will always save you money.

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