Gasoline prices are rising – again. Like most motorists, you have probably done all you think you can to save money at the gas pump this summer. There are several other ways to optimize your driving to save on gas, and here are some tips to consider.
Drive More Efficiently
There are various techniques to consider when driving on your daily route or longer trips. Think about your driving habits. Avoiding rapid acceleration, speeding and constant braking is a sure way to reduce fuel use, plus it saves wear and tear on your vehicles. It also reduces road rage – a growing trend in America. It also helps to obey the speed limit. While each vehicle has a different optimal fuel economy at different speeds, there is a general rule of thumb that, for every five mph over 60 mph, it costs about twenty additional cents per gallon of gasoline.
Maintain a Tuned Vehicle
By checking and replacing the air filter on a regular basis, you guarantee your vehicle has a clean flow of air. The air filter protects the car’s engine from impurities such as dirt and other damaging materials. Regular cleaning or replacement of the filter ensures your car gets the right amount of air for a more efficient running engine.
Be sure to regularly change the oil at recommended intervals because preventive maintenance like this helps reduce friction in the engine and prolongs the life of your vehicle. Replacing sparkplugs and faulty oxygen sensors can improve performance and reduce fuel consumption, as well as prolong the vehicle’s lifespan. You should also regularly check tire pressure to ensure proper inflation, which also improves gas mileage and increases safety on the road.
Plan and Combine Trips
When out running errands, be sure to plan your route in a way that staggers stops in an efficient pattern around the community. When possible, consolidate as many stops on one trip as possible. Also, if you have two vehicles, use the one that has better fuel efficiency. For those long road trips, pack only what you need, as extra weight reduces your car’s fuel efficiency.
These are just a few suggestions that are sure to help reduce gas consumption and, in many ways, pay you back over time in savings on gasoline, repairs and frustration at the pump.