What Is Automobile Pollution? Speeding increases fuel consumption and this in turn increases pollution.

What Is Automobile Pollution?

Internal combustion engines need a mixture of air and fuel to burn and produce energy to move the vehicle. It is these burnt gases which come out of the exhaust have the potential to cause pollution. In petrol engines the gases comprise of a mixture of unburnt hydrocarbons (HC), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx).

It is a combination of these gases that which result in automobile pollution when they are in excess quantity. Within a certain range they are acceptable but when the engine is not tuned properly or a vehicle uses obsolete technology or the quality of fuel is not good then all these result in a higher level of emission of all the gases.

If the air fuel mixture ratio is not correct then it increases the chances of pollution as it leads to inefficient. Also it leads to reduced power and fuel wastage, which in turn means less efficient performance of the engine along with lower fuel economy.

Steps to check pollution

In an effort to check automobile pollution in this country, the Government of India has made mandatory the use of unleaded petrol for the petrol fuelled engine.

But as an owner and user of automobile, we must all do our bit to not only control and reduce pollution but also get the best out of our vehicle.

Maintenance Tips to help you reduce pollution

1. Change engine oil at manufacturer recommended intervals or if the vehicle has been lying unused for a long period.

2. Whilechanging lubricant, make sure you use the recommended brand and more importantly, the grade of oil example, 40SW 10. Never use the wrong grade of oil.

3. If it is a carburetted vehicle, clean and tune the carburettor and adjust the idling speed every 3000 kms.

4. Check and adjust tappet clearance.

5. Inspect spark-plug clearance, clean and adjust gap. Replace plugs if necessary.

6. Check the ignition timing and set as per the manufacturer recommendation.

7. Check tyre pressure regularly because low tyre pressure causes drag which increases fuel consumption.

8. If the vehicle has been parked unused for a long time, have the engine tuned and the engine oil replaced.

Some do's and don'ts

1. Avoid unnecessary revving or idling of the engine, it not only increases your fuel consumption but also increases pollution.

2. Switch off the engine at red-lights, or where you are likely to stop for more than two minutes.

3. Try and drive around the speeds of 50-60 kmph in top gear.

4. Speeding increases fuel consumption and this in turn increases pollution.