According to a recent report by the Union of Concerned Scientists, of the 31 hybrid models you can currently buy, most are stuffed with unnecessary features such as DVD players, heated power mirrors, keyless entry systems and other luxury amenities that drive up the price.  Whether it’s true or not, there are many of us who can’t afford to upgrade to a hybrid motor for sale, in spite of our best intentions to help the environment. But all is not lost. Click and Clack, hosts of the NPR show “Car Talk” have a few handy tips for greening your driving experience even if you don’t have a newfangled hybrid or electric car.

Service Your Car Regularly

If you can’t remember the last time you took your car in for a full inspection and tune up, take it in now. By identifying and remedying issues that are dragging down your miles per gallon, you can stand to save hundreds of dollars and gallons of gas.

Don’t Top Off Your Tank

So few of us pay for fuel with cash anymore that it’s senseless to keep filling after the pump automatically stops just to get to that round dollar figure. Plus, it can damage your gasoline vapor-recovery equipment, which helps prevent your car from releasing gas vapor into the air (which causes smog, acid rain and ground level ozone).

Skip the High Octane

Unless you car manual specifically says you should use a high octane gas, there’s no need to use it in your car. The EPA says that using a higher octane gas than is recommended for your motors will not improve performance or emissions. In fact, some experts say that it might even pollute more.

Reduce Idling

Sitting in your car and idling for more than 15 minutes is a pure waste of gas and adds pollution to the environment. Modern cars don’t need to warm up in cold weather before driving.

Dispose of Fluids Properly

Fluids such as old oil, brake fluid and transmission fluid are particularly bad for the environment. Rather than dumping them in your backyard or in a normal dumpster, take them to a garage or call your local recycling district office to find out where to bring these hazardous materials.

There are more ways to reduce your impact on the environment with your car than buying something new. And while hybrid vehicles remain expensive, your best bet may be to follow some best practices with your current car. It’ll save you money and help the earth.