These days we are all looking for ways to save gas. Gas can get pricey, especially if you do a lot of driving between work and errands and family activities. Buying gas over and over can be hard on the budget. Here are 8 easy but effective ways to save gas and save money too.
Keeping a clean air filter is one of the best ways to save gas. It’s that thing the guys always try to get you to fix when you get your oil change. This time, don’t pass. Replacing your air filter can improve gas mileage up to 10%. If you’re not sure whether you really need to replace it (sometimes those fellas at the oil shop can be pushy) find a mechanic or friend knowledgeable about cars to help you decide.
Rolling lopsided can really put strain on your engine, thereby using more gas. Rotate your tires regularly to help conserve gas and limit wear and tear on your car. While you’re at it, make sure all of your tires have sufficient air. Think about how difficult it is to pedal your bike on low tires. Your car may be going through the same struggle.
Speeding is exhilarating, but hard on your mileage. Slowing down just five miles per hour will reduce fuel consumption by 7%, and slowing 10mph will reduce to 14%. Be aware of traffic laws: you don’t want to slow below the minimum speed limit. This is dangerous for you and all drivers around you. Just go at a steady pace to be nicer to your gas tank.
Weaving in and out of traffic might get you there faster, but your gas mileage suffers. Not to mention, this type of driving can be really dangerous. A full tank of gas isn’t much good with a wrecked car! Cut your road rage to a minimum. Smoother, safer driving will help you hold on to more miles per gallon.
Laying on the brakes too much while driving can really hurt you in the gas mileage department. You’ll also blow through your brake pads faster than you should. Stay at a safe distance behind the car in front of you while driving. Always be aware of what other drivers are doing around you. Try to anticipate the moves of other drivers and limit quick braking. Of course brake when you need to but, when you can, coast.
We are probably all guilty of this one! You or your passenger planned to run into a store really quickly, so you left your engine running. Only then do you realize that this quick pop into a shop is taking much longer than expected. Sitting in your car with the engine running wastes gas for no reason. If you plan on being still for more than 30 seconds, turn your engine off.
Extra weight in your car can increase gas consumption. I’m guilty of carrying around a lot of ‘junk in my trunk’ that I don’t use everyday. Store the heavier items at home unless you know you’re going to need them. Toting less heavy stuff in your car will help your gas last longer.
Do you have a lot of errands to run? Start with the location on your list that’s furthest from home and work your way back. Avoid high traffic areas/times when you can. This is less stressful for you and may even add time back into your day! Being smart about drive time is a great way to use gas to the fullest.
Gas prices show no sign of dropping significantly any time soon. These tips will help you conserve your gas in order for you to get more out of each tank. That’s putting gas money to good use! What tricks do you have to conserve gas?