Lifestyle
Maximize Fuel Efficiency With These Gas Saving Tips
It’s happening again. Gas prices are soaring, and us Californians are letting out a collective groan in protest of the astronomically high cost of filling up our cars. While many of us won’t be able to cut back on our driving, there are some tips you can use to help you save money and make it count when you fill up at the gas station.
Slow Down
Most drivers are guilty of it – driving 5 to 10 miles over the posted speed limit. Why go slow when you can go fast? While this mentality may save you time, it is definitely draining your wallet. You’d be surprised the impact slowing down will have on how long your tank of gas will last you. By simply driving the speed limit, you can dramatically increase your gas mileage. If you’re one for banking on your fast driving to get you to your destination on time, then simply leave a few minutes earlier, and you’re golden.
Clean Out Your Car
This may seem wildly obvious, but in the end, cleaning out your car to alleviate the total weight it is carrying can make an impact on your gas mileage. The more weight your car carries, the harder your engine has to work to move it all. All the little things you may keep in your car can add up, so be sure to keep your car free of an unnecessary clutter.
Be Smart When You Do Fill Up
When you fill up, it’s best to wait until you have a quarter tank of gas. When doing this, it will give you ample amount of time to continue looking for a new deal for your next tank of gas. It will also give your gas tank the optimal amount of fluid, because the lower half of your tank will go quicker than the upper half, due to evaporation and volume.
Know When to Run the Air Conditioner
While running the A/C is perfectly fine when you’re driving on the highway, it can have an impact on your gas mileage when you’re in stop and go traffic. Instead, roll your windows down when you’re driving through the city to save gas and still get that cool breeze during the warmer months.
Drive Smart
In addition to slowing down, being smart about your driving can make a huge effect on your gas efficiency. By accelerating moderately and stopping gradually, this could cut your gas consumption by as much as 35 percent. Doing this costs you a few seconds at most, and can have a dramatic influence on your mileage.
Keeping Up With Car Maintenance
Ensuring your car is properly maintained can go a long way in how your engine consumes gas. Regularly changing your oil out with the correct grade will greatly increase your fuel economy. Replacing your air filter is another good idea to improve your gas mileage.
Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated
When your tires low on air pressure, it creates what’s called “rolling resistance” which can cause more friction in your wheels when moving, resulting in lower gas mileage. By checking your tire pressure every week, you can guarantee that they’re filled to the optimal range.
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