We spend a lot of time in our cars, and that has an impact on our planet. So here are some tips to become a more eco‑friendly driver, with a little help from OnStar. 

A well-maintained vehicle produces less pollution, is more fuel-efficient, and is a whole lot safer. Vehicle Diagnostics* can help simplify the maintenance process by keeping tabs on your vehicle’s health for you — even sending you real-time alerts* if there’s an issue — and notifying your preferred Dealer* when it’s time for routine service. 

It seems like a small thing, but driving with your tires even a few pounds below the recommended pressure can impact your fuel economy and lead to higher greenhouse gas and pollution levels. You can use the vehicle mobile app* to keep tabs on your tire pressure (if properly equipped) and your vehicle’s health. 

Hauling unnecessary cargo can reduce your gas mileage, so clean out your trunk. An extra hundred pounds can cut your fuel economy by 1%, so get those golf clubs out of there. 

No surprise — aggressive driving and excessive idling reduce your gas mileage and increase smog. To consume less fuel, drive sensibly — follow speed limits and avoid abrupt acceleration — and avoid peak rush hours (sitting in traffic is fun for no one). Use the vehicle mobile app to keep track of your fuel efficiency and adjust your habits accordingly. 

Try to avoid filling your vehicle on Ozone Action Days when pollution is already an issue. If you can, wait until evening when the temperature has dropped. And next time you need to fuel up, consider E85 or biodiesel. Both are made from renewable resources, such as corn, and can reduce emissions from your vehicle. Check your owner’s manual to be sure your vehicle can use those fuels. 

Try to find a spot in a shaded area to help prevent gas from evaporating from your tank and into the air. Parking in the shade also keeps your vehicle cooler inside, so you can avoid getting into a steamy car on a hot day and lessen the need to ramp up the A/C. And, if that shady spot isn’t near your usual space, the vehicle mobile app can help you locate your vehicle* when you’re ready to drive. 

Sharing your commute with others — even a few days a week — can help reduce fuel costs, lessen the wear and tear on your car, and allow you to use the less congested carpool lane. And with an available built-in Wi-Fi® hotspot* in your vehicle, passengers can connect to the internet during the ride to read and reply to email or connect with co-workers. Telecommuting can also reduce emissions by letting you work from home (just be sure to ask your boss first). 

Next time you’re in the market for a new vehicle, consider fuel economy. Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac each offer vehicles with an EPA-estimated 30 mpg or higher highway rating. That includes sedans and even SUVs. Download the vehicle mobile app and start becoming an eco-friendly driver today! Already have the app? Check to see that it’s up-to-date.