If you don’t like shelling out an average of $50+ dollars at the gas station every week or week and a half, there are some ways you can improve your gas mileage and reduce your trips to the gas station. Outside of driving an all-electric car (and possibly paying less for car insurance), you can save on fuel costs – if you understand what eats up gas more quickly.
Things that Waste Gas
• Aggressive driving, characterized by speeding, rapid acceleration, and sudden or frequent braking, uses up fuel more quickly.
• Roof racks increase wind resistance and aerodynamic drag, especially on highways, making your car burn more fuel. If you need to have more storage, consider something that mounts to the rear of your car, or if you don’t need to carry it with you, unload your car to keep it as light as possible. A smaller vehicle will benefit more from reducing the amount of weight that is being loaded into it, and run longer on a tank of gas than one that is carrying extra items.
• Unnecessary idling – turn off your engine if you’re going to be stuck in one spot and not moving for several minutes.
• Don’t “top off” at the pump and make sure your fuel fill cap is on tight and working right.
Another effective way to improve your gas mileage is to regularly check and maintain your car. Some of the most common things to check for are:
• an out of tune or failed emissions system
• a dirty or clogged air filter
• poorly inflated tires
• using the wrong type of motor oil
Ways to Conserve Gas or Maximize Fuel Efficiency
• Choose a hybrid car that runs on electricity or solar power, in addition to gas. You may pay more upfront when buying or leasing this type of vehicle, but depending on the amount that you drive, it may save you in the long run.
• Check into regular carpools that you or your child can join to go to work, school, or any other scheduled activity. Not only will you save money, you may be able to use the carpool lane on the highway and reduce your traveling time!
• Use public transit
• Ride a bicycle or walk
• Keep your speed no higher than 60 miles per hour for the best fuel efficiency. Driving 65 instead of 75 mph reduces fuel cost 13%. Driving 55 saves 25%.
• Reduce the amount of weight you carry in your trunk.
• Reduce air conditioner use: Using the air conditioner increases fuel cost from 13% up to 21%.
You can also use tools or apps like gasbuddy.com to compare local gas station prices and get the best deal! And you should try to fill up earlier in the week when prices tend to be lower.
If you can follow even a few tips to avoid the most common gas wasting mistakes, your savings will add up over the weeks and months!
Speaking of savings, see if you’re getting the best rate on your car insurance. Why not get a free car insurance quote today?
Do you have other tips? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below
