Tips 1 – Drive smoothly & maintain steady speed
Avoiding sudden acceleration and hard braking reduces unnecessary fuel burn.
In Malaysia’s heavy traffic, Honda’s CVT transmission keeps the engine at its most efficient RPM. Use smooth, steady throttle and avoid sudden acceleration, hard braking, or frequent speed changes.
Tips 2 – Maintain a consistent highway speed
Keeping a steady speed within legal limits helps improve fuel efficiency.
During the long distance traveling at highway, maintaining a consistent pace reduces fuel consumption and creates a smoother driving experience. Driving within limits set by Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan also helps you avoid unnecessary penalties.
Tips 3 – Beat the Heat Without Burning Extra Fuel
Use air conditioning wisely and switch on ECON mode when suitable to save fuel.
Running the AC is essential in Malaysia, but using ECON mode helps reduce engine load and improve efficiency.
When NOT to use ECON Mode:
- Extremely hot weather when maximum cooling is needed
- Overtaking or merging on highways
- Driving on steep or challenging roads
When to use ECON Mode:
- City driving and stop-and-go traffic
- Steady cruising
- Flat roads in moderate conditions
Pre-cool your car briefly, then switch to ECON mode for better fuel savings
Tips 4 – Keep tyres inflated to the correct pressure
Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.
Always check tyre pressure when tyres are cold (early morning). Heat from the sun or driving can increase pressure readings and give inaccurate results.
Tips 5 – Service your car regularly
Follow Honda Malaysia’s Preventive Maintenance Service Schedule (PMSS) to keep your car in top condition.
Routine servicing helps maintain engine efficiency and can save fuel in the long run, especially in Malaysia’s humid climate and busy urban traffic. Include checks and replacements such as oil, fluids, and the air filter as per Honda’s recommended intervals, there’s no need to change components prematurely.
Tips 6 – Travel light
Minimise unnecessary weight and external attachments.
Not only as additional weight, roof racks or cargo boxes create aerodynamic drag even when empty. Clear out your car boot regularly, carrying unnecessary items long-term is a common habit in Malaysian daily driving.
Carrying unnecessary items adds weight and increases fuel usage. Clear out your car boot regularly. Roof racks and boxes can also create aerodynamic drag, even when empty.
Tips 7 – Close windows on the highway
Closed windows reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency at higher speeds.
At speeds above 80 km/h, open windows increase aerodynamic drag more than the fuel used by air conditioning. Keeping windows closed with AC on is more efficient for highway driving in Malaysia.
Tips 8 – Avoid idling with AC for long periods
Turn off the engine if stationary for extended periods
Leaving your engine running with the AC on is common in Malaysia’s heat. It uses fuel without moving the car. If you’re waiting for more than a few minutes, consider turning off the engine when it’s safe.
Tips 9 – Plan your route and timing
Reduce time spent in heavy traffic.
Frequent stop-and-go driving is one of the biggest contributors to increased fuel consumption. Planning your trips to avoid peak hours or congested routes especially in busy areas like Kuala Lumpur can lead to smoother, more fuel-efficient journeys.
Tips 10 – Switch to a Hybrid
If you’re buying a new car or thinking of upgrading, consider a hybrid.
With fuel prices on the rise and uncertainty about how long current rates will last, switching to a hybrid car can help stretch your fuel budget. Hybrids use less petrol thanks to an electric motor and regenerative braking, especially in city traffic. Current rebates make the switch even more accessible.
