CHAPTER 3.  MOTOR VEHICLE OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE

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1. What is appropriate motor vehicle operation?
2. What is appropriate motor vehicle maintenance?

1. What is appropriate motor vehicle operation?  Good driving habits and a common sense approach should be maintained when operating motor vehicles.  The following driving and operating techniques are examples of those that are to be observed:
   1. Avoid one-vehicle-per-person trips.  Use one motor vehicle for several passengers traveling in the same general area.  Always consider: "Is this trip necessary?" "Can the job be accomplished by some other means?"  Use the telephone when practicable.
   2. Federal Government motor vehicle operators should not start the engine of a motor vehicle until all occupants have properly fastened their seat belts.
   3. Use the smallest motor vehicle feasible for the trip.

2. What is appropriate motor vehicle maintenance?  As required, safety and preventive maintenance inspections shall be performed on FHWA-owned and -leased motor vehicles by Motor Vehicle Fleet Managers.  Special attention should be given to the following items:  oil and air filters, tire pressure, the cooling system, and proper wheel alignments.
   1. FHWA-owned motor vehicles.  The manufacturers' recommended schedules and specifications should be followed.  Proper maintenance can contribute to energy efficient operation and ensure that the motor vehicle will meet Federal and State emissions standards, which include safe and proper operation of the catalytic converter. (See 41 CFR 102-34.285.)
   2. Leased motor vehicle.  Motor Vehicle Fleet Managers shall comply with the GSA-prescribed maintenance schedule on either a time or mileage basis for IAMP motor vehicles.  Users of IAMP motor vehicles shall comply with the safety and preventive maintenance instructions established by the local IAMP.  For information on repairs, see 41 CFR 102-34.285. 
   3. State inspections.  Motor vehicles must pass State inspections where mandated.  The FHWA pays for these inspections unless the fee is waived.  See 41 CFR 102-34.290.