Cutting costs at the pump: 6 ways to save on gas
With today’s gas prices, the cost to fill-up your tank can be staggering. With five simple tips, you can boost fuel economy by over 10% without reducing the amount you drive. That's like getting a free tank full every tenth time you fill up.
1 - Drop the extra weight
If you are looking for a good place to start, how about removing some of the heavy clutter in the trunk (or truck bed)? Ditching 100 pounds of cargo can increase fuel economy by 2%.
Instead of using your trunk (or truck bed) as a catch-all for those things that you forgot to store in the garage, take them out and leave only the essentials. A few blankets and an emergency kit are fine, but ditch the bowling ball and the two sets of golf clubs that you haven’t used all year.
2 - Put your car on a maintenance schedule
Although dropping vehicle weight is a great way to get some extra miles out of each gallon, it isn't the only way to up your gas mileage. You should also schedule regular tune-ups.
When you follow the directions in the owner's manual, you can boost gas mileage by up to 4%. This tip won't just result in better gas mileage, it will lead to a longer life for your engine and cut down on expensive repairs due to poor spark plug and wire performance.
3 - Don’t drive around on improperly inflated tires
Tires naturally lose a bit of air each day. Check your tire pressure at least every other time you fill the tank to save some dough. Properly inflated tires improve gas mileage by over 3%. They also help prevent alignment problems, uneven tire wear and keep the car from pulling to one side or the other.
4 - Reduce wind drag as much as possible
Anything that makes a car less aerodynamic increases its wind drag. Removing roof racks and bike racks when they are not in use will eliminate some of the wind resistance. Depending on the number and size of the racks on your car, you can expect to gain at least a 1% fuel savings.
If you have been keeping track, then you have noticed that we've already hit 10% savings and we haven't even gotten to the fifth trick.
5 - Reduce your car’s idling time
If you are planning to sit in any one place for over five minutes, think picking up the kids at school or waiting in a slow fast-food drive through, turn the car off. Unless you drive a diesel, idling wastes more fuel than restarting the car.
6 - Consider altering your driving style
Not stomping on the gas pedal every time the light turns green and looking far enough ahead to slow down by coasting to a light that is going to be red will result in your car using less gas. How much depends on how good you get at having a consistent foot on the pedals.
This becomes obvious if you have a built in fuel economy meter. If you have one, pay attention to it. While you are driving, make a game out of how many miles per gallon you can get. This one can be fun for couples that like a little friendly competition.
Don't let rising gas prices bite you in the wallet. Fight back by getting the most out of the fuel you buy.
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